Finding Comfort in Current Struggles and Trials
The concept of finding comfort in current struggles and trials is rooted in biblical teachings and has been a cornerstone of Christian theology across various traditions. The apostle Paul's statement in 2 Corinthians 12:10, "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong," encapsulates this idea [2]. This verse has been interpreted in different ways by various Christian traditions.
In the Methodist/Wesleyan tradition, Adam Clarke interprets Paul's statement as an expression of joy in the midst of suffering because of the support of God's powerful influences. Clarke notes that Paul "not only endure[s] them patiently, but [is] pleased when they occur; for I do it for Christ's sake - on his account; for on his account I suffer" [4]. This perspective emphasizes the role of Christ's presence in transforming suffering into a means of spiritual strength.
The Eastern Orthodox tradition, as represented by John Chrysostom, views suffering as a form of spiritual schooling and correction. Chrysostom argues that the present life is a contest, and thus, afflictions are an expected part of the Christian experience. He encourages believers not to be troubled by current afflictions, as they are not a sign of punishment but rather a means of spiritual growth [3]. This understanding is grounded in Christ's own teachings, such as "In the world ye shall have tribulation" (John 16:33) [6].
In the Baptist/Reformed tradition, John Gill's commentary on Job and Lamentations highlights the importance of searching into the love of God and the covenant of grace to find comfort during afflictions. Gill suggests that believers should "search and try our ways" to understand the purpose behind their sufferings and to find support in God's love and covenant [5]. This approach emphasizes the need for introspection and reliance on scripture during times of trial.
The biblical anchor for this concept is found in various passages, including Job's expression of longing for comfort in his suffering (Job 7:13) [1]. The idea that suffering can be a catalyst for spiritual growth and comfort is a recurring theme in Christian scripture and tradition.
The different traditions converge on the idea that comfort in struggles and trials is not derived from the absence of suffering but from the presence and purpose of God within it. Whether through the lens of spiritual strengthening, schooling, or reliance on God's covenant, Christians are encouraged to find solace in their faith during times of hardship.
The historical development of this doctrine is closely tied to the early Christian understanding of suffering as a form of participation in Christ's sufferings. The apostolic writings, such as those of Paul, laid the groundwork for later theological reflections on the role of suffering in the Christian life. The patristic era, represented by figures like John Chrysostom, further developed this theology, emphasizing the educational and corrective aspects of suffering.
Sources
- Job “Job 7:13 (BSB) — When I think my bed will comfort me and my couch will ease my complaint,”
- King James Version “[KJV] 2 Corinthians 12:10 — Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.”
- CCEL/NPNF (Eastern Orthodox) “John Chrysostom, Homilies on Acts & Romans: do we confound the times? Why do we turn things upside down? Say, art thou afflicted, and livest in poverty, and in dejection? Be not troubled: for it were worth being troubled at, wert thou destined to be afflicted in that world: as for this present affliction, it is the cause of rest. “This sickness,” saith He, “is not unto death.” ( John xi. 4 .) That affliction is punishment: this, schooling and correction. It is a contest, this life present: if so, to fight is our business now: it is war and battle. In war one does not seek to have rest, in war ”
- 2 Corinthians (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on 2 Corinthians 12:10: Therefore I take pleasure - I not only endure them patiently, but am pleased when they occur; for I do it for Christ's sake - on his account; for on his account I suffer. For when I am weak - most oppressed with trials and afflictions, then am I strong; God supporting my mind with his most powerful influences, causing me to rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.”
- Lamentations (Baptist/Reformed) “John Gill on Lamentations 3:36: Let us search and try our ways,.... stead of murmuring and complaining, let us search for something that may support and comfort, teach and instruct, under afflictive providences; let us search into the love of God, which, though it cannot be fully searched out, it will be found to be from everlasting to everlasting; and that all afflictions spring from it; and that it continues notwithstanding them: let us search into the covenant of grace, in which provision is made for afflictions in case of disobedience, and for supports under them: let us search the Scriptu”
- CCEL/NPNF (Eastern Orthodox) “John Chrysostom, Homilies on John & Hebrews: 2 Cor. xii. 8–10 .) “Wherefore,” he says, “I take pleasure in infirmities, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Moreover, hear Christ Himself saying, “In the world ye shall have tribulation.” ( John xvi. 33 .) [6.] Ver. 3 . “For consider,” saith he, “Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.” For if the sufferings of those near us arouse us, what earnestness will not those of our Master give us! What w”