New Apostolic Church Raleigh Congregation

FabulousRaleigh & Charlotte Youth weekend which concluded in worship & divine service.

Mark your calendar for Saturday April 18th! - get your car washed, munch on a burger or hotdog, and then top off your fun with some homemade goodies… more info to come!

Our bible verse prompts two questions we can ask ourselves from both a natural and spiritual perspective:

How do you feel when you are suffering?
How do you feel when you experience relief and consolation?

The suffering of which Paul speaks of is not a natural one, but more of a spiritual one. Paul suffered from the many pressures and forces he encountered while spreading the gospel. Those who believed also experienced suffering as they were persecuted for their faith and for following what they were taught. In our day, we can suffer when we see that some don’t see the value of remaining faithful, or when some in other places, like in Paul’s time, are persecuted for their faith.

But those who believed in the gospel that Paul brought also knew that God granted a wonderful consolation. This is something we know as well, while we may experience suffering often, there is great comfort and consolation that comes from our Heavenly Father. He watches over us and grants us comfort, relief and consolation when the time is right. He never disappoints.

The fourth verse of #390 (“Our God is loving”) in our Hymnal shows what our Heavenly Father does to ease our suffering:

With joy He fills ev’ry soul grown weary;
with joy He fills ev’ry aching heart.

We praise him evermore; Our God is loving,
our God is loving, He loves us all.

Additional Bible Readings:
2 Corinthians 1: 3-7;
2 Corinthians 1: 8-10

Personal Reflection: Think of a time when your heart was burdened with suffering. How did you feel? And then think of a time when you experienced comfort and consolation after a time of suffering. How did you feel? Paul never forgot that his God was there for him. Think of something you can do this week to keep your faith as we sing in one of our songs, and know that our Heavenly Father is always there for you.