For I consider that our present sufferings cannot even be compared to the coming glory that will be revealed to us.
Into the Text
This week, as we learn about the process of lament, we’re turning our focus to what it means to trust God in our lament. One key element in the psalms of lament is the turning point, the moment when the author expresses trust in God in the midst of crying out to Him in despair.
Lament itself is a declaration of trust. When we cry and mourn over losses, death, pain, and sorrow, we acknowledge this is not the way things are supposed to be. Lament allows us to express our pain and our sorrow openly to God. If we did not believe God could act on our behalf, there would be no reason to make requests. Lament is the practice of sharing our pain with God and expressing faith in both His ability and His willingness to help us.
Expressing our pain and declaring our trust are both essential components of lamenting. Romans 8:18–39 is an excellent place to start. This passage acknowledges suffering, expresses the beauty of hope, and proclaims the unchangeable love of God. This week, we’ll read this passage multiple times, each day focusing on a different truth.
Today, we begin with acknowledging our suffering in light of eternity. Paul did not minimize or trivialize the suffering he and the early church experienced. He reminded the church in Rome how suffering brings us closer to Christ as we share in His suffering. But no matter what we experience, our suffering is nothing compared to the glory we will experience when we are united with Him in heaven.
Prayer
God, thank you that you are a good and loving Father that I can turn to, even in hard seasons. I pray that you will help me to learn more about who you are so that I can turn to you in moments of hardship. Amen.