September 11

Sufferers Make Strong Believers

It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is still young. — Lam 3:27 BSB

This is as good as a promise. It has been good, it is good, and it will continue to be good for me to bear the yoke.

Early in life, I felt the weight of conviction, and it has been a burden that has enriched my soul ever since. Would I have loved the gospel so much if I hadn’t learned through deep experience the need for salvation by grace? Jabez was more honorable than his brothers because his mother bore him in sorrow, and those who suffer greatly in their spiritual rebirth often become strong believers in God’s sovereign grace.

The yoke of criticism is a difficult one, but it prepares a person for future honor. No one is fit to lead if they haven’t faced contempt. Praise can be intoxicating if it isn’t preceded by hardship. Those who rise to prominence without struggle often fall into dishonor.

The yoke of affliction, disappointment, and heavy labor is not something to seek out, but when the Lord places it on us in our youth, it often develops a character that glorifies God and blesses the church.

Come, my soul, bow your neck; take up your cross. It was good for you when you were young; it will not harm you now. For Jesus’ sake, bear it carefully.