The discipline of suffering fills our schedules.

Immunizations. Homework. Surgeries. Exercise. We’ve learned that if we choose some pains to endure for a bit, greater pleasures will follow later.

The early church suffered pains.

They were growing at a time when their surrounding culture was polytheistic. Christianity was illegal. Refusal to worship the Roman gods brought many to criminal trials where they were condemned to face wild beasts in the Roman amphitheater or were burned at the stake.

The apostle Paul encouraged the early church in his letter to the Romans. He said that in spite of their horrific persecution, it is nothing compared to the glory that awaits. This suffering is small, it’s temporary; the glory of heaven is immeasurable, it’s eternal.

We all have the discipline to endure. Perhaps you aren’t losing your life or your marriage over your decision to follow Christ, but laying down your life, your time, your money for God’s work or for your neighbor is a sacrifice. Honoring the Sabbath is a financial sacrifice. Taking time to pray for needy friends and family is a time sacrifice. Sometimes the care we give to others returns void; it is a sacrifice of heart.

Take heart. For every pain this world can present there is a future pleasure that will far surpass it.