Sometimes life feels unbearably painful. We struggle to imagine a future free from pain, trouble, and trials.
In John 16, Jesus compares our sorrow—and the joy that follows—to childbirth. A mother endures tremendous pain while giving birth, yet afterward, her anguish is transformed by the joy of holding her child. She would not feel the same way if she had simply suffered a terrible injury. The difference is that her pain produced something precious.
When we live in God, we are pregnant with the possibility that our pain can produce something meaningful. God can transform our pain into growth, purpose, and even joy.
“When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.” John 16:21–22 ESV
Like a Mother
As members of God’s family, we have His Spirit, strength, and promises. He can transform our pain, just as the anguish of childbirth is transformed by the joy of new life.
This has been true in my battle with cancer. I would never want to have cancer again, but much of that anguish has been replaced by joy because of what God did in me and for me through that experience.
Now, when I empathize with someone facing cancer, I can reach back into that painful time and understand some of what they are experiencing. God has given that suffering a purpose.
If you are going through a difficult time, invite God into every part of it. Following Him will not prevent all pain, but He will walk through it with you. He can lessen its sting and transform what suffering produces in your life.
Look up, He is there and He won’t leave you, He loves you so much.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” Psalm 23:4 ESV
“You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy.” Psalm 30:11 NLT
