The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

PAIN

Pain in life is a universal experience — it falls on the righteous and the unrighteous. People often search for a reason behind trials and tragedies, but answers are elusive since humans cannot fully know the purposes of God. The Bible suggests that in some instances, pain might be punishment for specific sins, a test of faith, fatherly discipline or a means to drive people to repentance. Usually clear meaning is absent, especially in situations of ongoing suffering. From the pit of pain, the psalmist reached for confidence in God — the one who had been his faithful King for a long time (v. 12). He knew of God’s capabilities, yet wondered when relief would come.

Jesus frequently stepped into people’s lives during a point of great pain. He performed a miracle for a grieving mother at a funeral (Lk 7:13 – 15). He touched and healed a man with leprosy (Mt 8:2 – 3). He changed the lives of a bleeding woman and a worried father over the course of just a few minutes (Mk 5:22 – 42). Jesus is full of compassion for the pain caused by this world. He is eager for people to know that he cares deeply about their trouble. Jesus is a dependable source of comfort in the face of suffering (2Co 1:3 – 6).

Jesus, I pray for those who are in pain right now. I pray that you would work through that pain so you may be glorified. Please give me compassion for those who suffer, and show me how to help them in practical, real ways. Amen.