Introduction
Psychologists say that to handle suffering well, we must find meaning in it. Suffering without a purpose feels unbearable. We need a way to make sense of our pain, whether it’s social, spiritual, or physical. Today, Paul talks about his suffering and how he can handle it because of Christ.

Today’s Scripture
Ephesians 3:12-13 (New Living Translation)

"Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence. So please don’t lose heart because of my trials here. I am suffering for you, so you should feel honored."

Explanation and Reflection
We all go through hard times for different reasons. Paul suffers here, but what’s amazing is how well he suffers for the sake of the Gospel.

1. Suffering Boldly
   The term “because of Christ” sums it all up. Since we have Christ, we can suffer boldly. This confident suffering is rooted in the historical fact of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. Resurrection power changed Peter from being scared of a servant girl (Luke 22:54-62) to boldly speaking in front of thousands at Pentecost (Acts 2:14-41). That same power can make us bold.
2. Suffering Confidently
   What we believe in shapes how we act. Confidence can be positive or negative. For example, if someone is confident they'll crash their car, they drive nervously. But if they believe they’re a safe driver, they drive confidently and safely. This is called a “self-fulfilling prophecy.” Henry Ford once said, “Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right.” Paul has a vivacious confidence. He believes that because of Christ, suffering well isn’t just possible; it’s a guaranteed outcome for those with faith.
3. Suffering Patiently
   Part of the pain of suffering is time. Suffering by its very nature drags on slowly. As the Psalmist says in Psalm 13:1-2: “O Lord, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way? How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand?” Paul encourages the church at Ephesus: “So please don’t lose heart.” Time is a reality and a harsh enemy. Yet suffering grounded in Biblical hope is marked by patience.
4. Suffering Honorably
   The Christian does not suffer as the world suffers. Because we believe suffering has meaning and is rooted in Christ, we suffer with honor. Suffering should not embitter or enrage us. It is a privilege to sacrifice, struggle, and suffer for the sake of Christ.

Question of the Day
Here's a question for you to think about and apply:
How can you get out of your comfort zone and sacrifice more for the sake of the Gospel? How can you suffer well to help fulfill the Great Commission? What comforts can you give up?