When we think of heaven, we might wrongly imagine that we will instantly forget the concepts of suffering, pain, and death. When Jesus welcomes us with open arms, though, we will still know our own stories—and His.

It’s an inescapable truth that Jesus Christ’s suffering was the only possible means for us to know God and receive His salvation. Then again, that’s not the end of the story.

The reality is: Our suffering in this life never takes God by surprise. It always has a divine purpose. Suffering is a necessary, God-designed pathway to a closer walk with Him. Our suffering is temporary and our future joy is eternal.Our suffering is no different from what others have faced.Our suffering is eased by the godly examples of others. Our suffering displays redemption to a watching world, and helps us comfort others going through similar trials. The Bible says that in 2 Corinthians, chapter 1.

Last but not least, our suffering is always for something—for Jesus Christ. Let’s remember our Lord’s example and draw closer to Him even in our suffering – the One who suffered on the cross for our sins.

This is Luis Palau.