Summary: In a dispute, a plaintiff will sometimes try to sue a defendant for “pain and suffering.” In these instances, the plaintiff is seeking to recoup some sort of reimbursement for the anguish the defendant has allegedly caused him. Paul opens his letter with an honest admission of his situation: he is in great pain and suffering. He is “in chains for Christ” (verse 13). Yet, rather than suing, Paul rejoices, for he know that what has happened to him “has really served to advance the gospel” (verse 12). Do we see circumstances that cause us pain and suffering as opportunities to advance Christ’s gospel? What are some ways we can better learn to see the gospel even in our most difficult moments?
