Why do I expect to feel great in my journey to find Christ? My whole life I’ve been running from pain and chasing anything that gave me pleasure — drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, exercise, whatever helped me escape. So now, as I walk toward Christ, I catch myself wanting that same comfort. I want peace without pressure, healing without the hurt. But that’s not realistic.
Scripture makes it clear that this path isn’t supposed to feel easy. In the King James Version, 1 Peter 4:12 says, “think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you.” And 2 Timothy 3:12 says, “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” Following Christ comes with fire. It comes with discomfort. It comes with moments that break you before they build you.
And here’s what I’m wrestling with: How is it that Christ brings peace, but at the same time suffering? How can both exist in the same walk? I don’t know yet. Maybe that answer comes with time. What I do know is I’m done running. I’m choosing to stay in the discomfort, because it’s part of life and part of following Christ. Even when it’s heavy, I’m not giving up.
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