When you face trials, it is easy to keep them to yourself. It can be hard to admit to others that you are struggling or suffering. There is pressure to look like you have it all together. Yet the Bible tells us that we will always have trouble. We can easily lose hope when we struggle. But as author Travis Thrasher says, "the only hope that's out there is Jesus". There is great freedom in being able to say we have hope in Jesus. Likewise, our stories can encourage one another. Travis shares how he finds encouragement even in times of suffering.

An important part of your journey through suffering is to share your story with others. As the Bible says in 1 Thessalonians, we should encourage each other and build each other up. Whether it is you or someone you know who is suffering, God can use your story in amazing ways. You can be encouraged by someone else’s story, too. Like scripture reads in Romans 8:28, you can trust that God is at work for your good - even when you are suffering.

Apply

• Is it easy or hard to believe what it says in Romans 8:28? Why?
• Take a moment to think of someone you trust and pray about sharing your suffering with them.