A person will never be able to give thanks if they see suffering merely as a painful burden or a crushing pressure. They will never discover the contrasting beauty hidden behind life’s bitterness. But when someone begins to see that behind every problem lies a valuable lesson—that life’s struggles bring maturity and suffering becomes a tool for shaping character—they will find it easier to say, “Thank You, Lord, for whatever I am going through. For whatever I am facing. I believe there is a good plan of God behind this bitter experience.” People like this become strong individuals whose faith in God remains unshaken.
Thus, one’s paradigm or way of thinking determines one’s actions and behavior. If a person’s mindset is positive, they will perceive whatever they face from a perspective that produces goodness. However, we must also be realistic: in every situation, there are always two sides—the good and the bad, the beneficial and the harmful. Therefore, choose to see the good side, the one that brings benefit and blessing, rather than the evil or the damaging side. It is important to note that the word “suffering” in Philippians 1:29 does not refer to the pain or struggles that arise from our own mistakes or carelessness. For example, a business that collapses because of gambling, illness caused by unhealthy eating habits, or poor grades due to laziness—these are not the kinds of suffering meant here. Neither is family conflict caused by selfishness the suffering that Paul refers to.
The “suffering” mentioned in that verse refers to the burdens, pressures, or struggles that arise because of Christ, not merely physical suffering, but the spiritual battle to break free from the sinful nature that still binds the believer. The divine nature cannot emerge as long as a believer remains enslaved by sin. Conversely, the divine nature grows and strengthens within those who deliberately break free from the bondage of sin.
Pay close attention to this phrase: “When they break free from the sinful nature.” This statement shows that believers themselves must consciously lay aside their sinful nature. God’s Word and the Holy Spirit indeed help us leave behind our old selves, but human will also play a role that cannot be ignored. Without a firm personal decision to turn away from sin, the divine nature will remain only an ideal, never a reality. It is we ourselves who must put to death the sinful nature still hidden within us.
How do we do that? First, by frequently coming before God in prayer, both in private and together with others. Prayer means having a dialogue with our Father in heaven. Believers have a Father in heaven—a living Father who hears and who longs to speak to His children.
God can’t remain silent when His children come to Him with sincere hearts. If imperfect earthly parents are willing to listen to their children, how much more our heavenly Father—who is perfect—will surely listen! The problem is often not that God is silent, but that we are not sensitive enough to hear His voice. At times, we may feel confused or doubtful, asking, “Is this God’s voice, or just my own thoughts?”
My brothers and sisters, never grow weary of praying, and do not let confusion keep you from seeking God. For when we have a sincere desire and faithfully come before Him, we will become increasingly sensitive and familiar with hearing His voice. Hallelujah, praise the Lord! God surely speaks—to purify, to correct, and to restore His children from every form of uncleanness, wickedness, and impurity.