Living as Exiles: Finding God's Purpose in our Pain

In a world that often feels hostile to our faith, how do we live for Christ when that very faith is the source of much conflict and confusion? This question isn't new - it's one that believers have grappled with for centuries.

Imagine being part of the early church, scattered throughout the Roman Empire, facing persecution under emperors like Nero. Your faith in Christ could cost you everything - your property, your freedom, even your life. In the face of such adversity, how do you hold onto hope?

The apostle Peter addressed this very issue in his letters to the "elect exiles" spread throughout what is now modern-day Turkey. His words, penned nearly 2000 years ago, still resonate powerfully today:

"Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood." (1 Peter 1:1-2)

This passage reminds us of a profound truth: as believers, we are "elect exiles" - chosen by God, yet strangers in this world. Our true citizenship is in heaven, and this earthly life is but a temporary sojourn.

But what does it mean to live as an exile? It means recognizing that we will often feel out of place in a culture that doesn't share our values. It means understanding that following Jesus comes with a cost. As Jesus himself said, "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you." (John 15:18)

When we face hardship because of our faith, it's natural to ask questions like:

1. What did I do to deserve this?
2. Why would God allow this?
3. When will it stop?

These are valid questions, but they often stem from a misunderstanding of the nature of suffering in the Christian life. The truth is, suffering isn't the exception for believers - it's the rule. Jesus never promised his followers an easy life. In fact, he said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

So how do we reconcile the reality of suffering with the goodness of God? Here are some key truths to remember:

1. God is sovereign over our suffering. Nothing happens to us by chance or outside of His control. As the apostle Paul reminds us, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28)

2. Suffering has a purpose. God uses adversity to shape us into the image of Christ. James 1:2-4 tells us, "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

3. Our suffering is temporary. While it may feel endless in the moment, we have the promise of eternal joy in God's presence. Revelation 21:4 paints a beautiful picture of our future hope: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away."

4. Jesus is Lord over our suffering. He's not distant or unaware of our pain. He himself endured unimaginable suffering on our behalf. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us, "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin."

Living as exiles means embracing a different perspective on suffering. Instead of asking, "When will this stop?" we should perhaps ask, "What if it never does? Will I still follow Jesus?" This isn't about being pessimistic, but about cultivating a faith that endures regardless of circumstances.

The apostle Paul's words in Philippians 3:8 capture this mindset beautifully: "Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ."

This doesn't mean we seek out suffering or find joy in pain itself. But it does mean we can find joy in Christ even amidst our suffering. We can trust that God is working all things - even the painful things - for our good and His glory.

So how do we practically live this out? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Cultivate eternal perspective. Remember that this world is not our home. Set your mind on things above (Colossians 3:2).

2. Embrace community. We weren't meant to face trials alone. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can encourage and support you.

3. Lean into spiritual disciplines. Prayer, Scripture study, and worship are vital lifelines, especially in times of hardship.

4. Look for opportunities to minister to others. Often, our own suffering equips us to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

5. Fix your eyes on Jesus. He is our ultimate example of enduring suffering for the joy set before him (Hebrews 12:2).

Living as exiles isn't easy, but it's the calling of every believer. We may feel out of place in this world, but that's because we belong to another. Our suffering has purpose, our hope is secure, and our God is faithful.

So take heart, fellow exile. The road may be difficult, but the destination is glorious. As we navigate the challenges of this life, may we echo the words of the psalmist: "Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." (Psalm 73:25-26)