It's part of it. It just is...
Paul thought it necessary to send Timothy to the church in Thessaloniki. "that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this." 1 Thess 3:3
They were dealing with hard times as a church. Paul even reminds them while he was with them he had taught them they would suffer tribulation. Do you remember how long Paul ministered to the church? Less than a month, yet Paul thought it necessary to teach them suffering was part of the package.
Now, not to be doom and gloom. Suffering may be part of our walk with Christ let's be reminded, "And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you," 1 Thess 3:12
Even in the difficult the Lord empowers us and propels us to increase and abound in love. And in order for us to love others we must first experience that love. You are so loved! And that love radiates through us. Recognize this. Embrace it. His love is greater than any sorrow. Remember, no matter what we may deal with the love of Christ is in us and lives through us! Be loved and love others! Thank you Jesus!
- To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.