Blog Post #8: Suffering


In what ways did the people you learned about during this unit suffer? What was their reaction to their suffering?

Many of the people I learned about this unit suffered from the strong opposition of other's beliefs. For example, St. Paul was prosecuted, stoned, threatened, and beaten by his adversaries because they simply disagreed with him. Moreover, Peter and other apostles were thrown in jail because of their preaching. As a result of this suffering, most of them became discouraged, questioned their faith, hid and silenced their teaching out of fear that they would be killed. However, after guidance and encouragement from God, they became as fearless as they have ever been. They trusted in God completely as they risked their lives daily to share the word of God.

Which story from the Acts of the Apostles did you find most inspiring and why?

I think Acts 18, where Paul was In Corinth was very inspiring because it shows how suffering can be experienced in very relatable ways. Paul was verbally opposed and argued with constantly, and in time that can discourage a person easily, as it did to Paul. He was then motivated and supported by God to continue, even though he was risking his life. He still experienced threats and opposition, but this time he was brave and had no fear of danger. After the Jews and Greeks realized that nothing was being done by their leader to stop Paul, they turned on their leader and beat him. This is the end of the story, however, this goes to show how no matter what, there will always be conflict and barriers in the lives of innocents, and that people still have the ability to hurt others they once followed in the blink of an eye.

How have you experienced challenges in your own life and how have you dealt with them?

In challenging times, I usually try to remind myself that things will get better because moments of hardship aren't forever. Things pass, and we grow from our challenging experiences. Usually, when I get to a point where I feel despair and encounter a difficult situation, I try to make the best out of them. I look to learn from them and build strength to overcome them, which I know is easier said than done. However, I notice that when people, including myself, truly care for something, they become very determined and can achieve anything. I also turn to my parents, because I know how much more experienced they are and that they have a lot of advice to give. Almost all of the times, their guidance and support are what really help me get through hardships.

Who are people that you can turn to in times of need and why?

My parents are the first people I turn to for help, usually, each parent is better suited for different times. However, sometimes I want a second opinion and I will turn to my sister or aunt. I feel that I trust my family more than anyone, but I don't always want to bother them with small worries and that's where I turn to my friends. Having friends that you know care about you and will give you honest advice you can trust, is really important. It is hard to find trust with a lot of friends and that is why I have only two people I really go to for help. Finding friends and people to trust is something that takes time and isn't always perfect. People aren't always willing to help you and may turn away from you in your times of need, so sometimes no one can help you but God.
(ST. PAUL'S SUFFERING FOR THE SAKE OF MISSION.)
This image shows St. Paul being ridiculed and beaten, as the pale man on the left has a stone in his hand. You can also see in the center, in the background, men are also holding stones, implying St. Paul was being stoned. You can see the fear depicted in his face and how helpless he is on the ground. I think this image is very powerful because it visually represents the suffering St. Paul experiences for preaching about Jesus. 



Work Cited

ST. PAUL'S SUFFERING FOR THE SAKE OF MISSION.
      www.wordonfire.org/wof-core/libraries/timthumb/timthumb.php?                                          zc=1&w=1328&h=598&src=https://www.wordonfire.org/wof-site/media/brstpaulstoning.jpg.

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