Colossians 1:24, "Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:"
Paul's ministry included suffering for God's people in order to give the church the spiritual gift God gave him. He suffered for the body of Christ in order that he might fulfill the will of God.
God can use us in a mighty way to bless others in the church if we are not afraid to suffer along the journey. Philippians 1:29.
Heavenly Father, I don't think that I have ever suffered very much for your people, but I thank you for those who went before me who did suffer so that I could hear the gospel and believe and receive eternal life. I thank you for every person who ever suffered so that the gospel could continue to spread around this planet. Amen.
