Stretched, Slandered & Suffering

The issue of suffering as a Christian has become quite the controversy in the American Church in the last several decades. Interestingly, no other generation of believers in any other place has ever lastingly questioned the issue of suffering. It is only the modern American Christian that seems to feel entitled to a free pass on hardships. Our brothers and sisters in other parts of the world have no questions about the matter. They know that God allows suffering, and that He will harness it for our own good when we lean into Jesus during times of mistreatment. The words of Jesus to the ancient Church of Smyrna help us to both prepare for and to endure in real-time seasons of suffering as a believer. May Holy Spirit prepare us in body, mind, and spirit for the approaching time in America will it will cost much for all who are unashamed to be known as a follower of Jesus.