You’ve likely experienced painful moments in your life.

But how do you relate to God when you’re in that moment of pain?

A pastor recently brought this home to me by describing the thieves who were crucified on crosses near Jesus. Remember them? There were two. 

Both of them, in their pain and suffering, mocked Jesus. But one changed and was meek and acknowledged Christ’s godhood, begging only to be remembered by his Savior, Jesus.

These are two very common ways of reacting when we are in intense moments of pain and suffering: wrathful and bitter versus long-suffering and meek.

So how do YOU approach Jesus when you’re at the point of pain? It’s tough to remain calm and meek, isn’t it? To bow your head and accept your circumstances rather than rant and rave for all your worth can be such a battle. When life deals us serious blows that we can’t understand, it’s very easy to act like the enraged and bitter criminal instead of the accepting, humble criminal.

Let us pray that we have the patience and fortitude to approach Christ in a way that acknowledges him as King of our hearts—and try to remember that our Father wants good for us.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28,29).