Paul writes, "strengthened with all might according to his glorious power for all patience and long suffering with joy (Colossians 1:11). Who is he kidding? How can one have joy in the midst of long suffering?
Jesus gave us the key. "Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy set before him, endured the cross despising the shame" (Hebrews 12:1-2).
We are not sadistic children. We do not enjoy suffering. Jesus despised the shame. But we do not focus on the pain. We focus on the outcome, God's reward. That is how and why we power for joy in the midst of suffering.
