I think I've been misunderstanding verses like Romans 1:3 that identify Christians as those who are to rejoice in our sufferings.
Am I alone?
The way I have recently found myself responding to suffering and and bad stuff that happens to me and around me is to just not let it get to me - to essentially remain stoic. People treat me bad or make fun of the faith I hold so dear, and I say nothing. When I see tragedy strike, I just remain calm, don't get emotional and keep my thoughts to myself.
Is this really what Paul means when he describes rejoicing in suffering as leading to a strengthened character? How can suffering strengthen you if you don't even feel it or feel it's effects? Its like if I'm lifting weights, if I don't feel the pain, then I'm not actually getting stronger.
Romans 1:3 must not be instructing us to remain stoic because if we look at Jesus, he was always crying! It's not my intention to be flippant or simplify Jesus, but instead to point out how my stoicism may be leading to a dangerous character comprised of of insensitivity and aloofness that may keep me from reaching out and empathizing with others who are hurting.
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