Overcoming Suffering
Christine Leichliter

Scripture:
"Blessed is the man who endures trial, as he will receive the crown God has promised him." --James 1:12

Devotional:
Certainly, we do not ask for trial or suffering, but we all endure something. Perhaps that trial is not as dramatic as that of Biblical Job or modern-day James O'Leary (Soul on fire), but we all endure trial. Instead, we are charged with enduring that suffering, no matter the intensity of it.

As humans, when we are faced with trials - physical infirmity, emotional distress, or wavering faith - we are tempted to ask , or at least think, "Why me, God?" Does He always answer? The answer is an emphatic "Yes." But do we hear Him? Not always.

Take the example of James O'Leary, from the story "Soul on Fire." Surviving burns over 100% of his body (impossible to imagine), James went on to endure and do great things. Supported by his family, friends, and baseball announcer Jack Buck, and making miraculous strides in recovery, Jack became an inspirational motivational speaker. He touched thousands of souls with his encouragement and faith.

The themes of resilience, faith, family, and community ring throughout his story. And are these themes that we as Methodists strive to exhibit and cultivate? If we are true to our faith, and endure our trials whether great or small with grace and endurance, then surely, we will also receive "the crown God has promised [us]."