~ Philippians 1:29
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Paul’s words may surprise us. We understand that believing in Christ is a gift. But here he says something startling: suffering for Christ’s sake is also a gift—“granted” to us.
The Greek word for granted is echaristhē, from the same root as grace (charis). It means something given freely, as a favor or privilege. In other words, suffering—though painful—is not a curse but a grace-filled opportunity. Why? Because it unites us with Jesus’ own mission.
This doesn’t mean God sends sickness or delights in our pain. Sickness is part of this fallen world, the result of sin’s corruption and the enemy’s work. But when we endure trials with faith, God redeems them for His glory. Just as Christ suffered to bring salvation, so we suffer in a fallen world as witnesses of His sustaining grace.
For some, suffering comes as persecution. For others, it comes through weakness of body, illness, or hardship. In both cases, Paul reminds us: this is not outside of God’s plan. Just as believing is part of following Christ, so is suffering. It’s not meaningless—it’s fellowship with Him.
How does this connect to biblical health? We pursue health because our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. We avoid harmful habits, toxic exposures, and unhealthy lifestyles because stewardship honors God. But even with wise choices, sickness may still touch us. When it does, this verse reframes our perspective: suffering is not wasted. In our weakness, we are given the privilege to share in Christ’s sufferings—and to reveal His strength to the world.
Think about it: when you trust God in sickness, you are living testimony to His sustaining power. When you continue to worship in weakness, you show the world that Christ is greater than your circumstances. When you endure with hope, you point others to the glory to come. That is grace.
Paul is not telling us to seek suffering—but to receive it as part of our calling when it comes. Belief and suffering walk hand in hand because both connect us to Christ. And just as His sufferings led to resurrection glory, so ours will too.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the grace of believing in Christ, and thank You for the grace of sharing in His sufferings. Help me to endure sickness and trial with faith, so that my life points others to Your strength. Let my weakness become a testimony of Your power and glory. Amen.
