We often view suffering as something to fix, but the Apostle Paul shows us a different perspective—one rooted in joy. This joy doesn’t come from our circumstances, but from our identity as citizens of heaven. It comes from trusting that God will finish what He started in us.

As citizens of heaven, we rely on a powerful God, we tell others what He has done, we live with an eternal perspective, we offer comfort to others, and we live lives worthy of the Good News of Jesus.

This Good News is that, though we all fall short, God makes us right with Him through Jesus. Our joy, hope, and purpose are found in Him—even in the midst of suffering.