How can it be well with your soul when you suffer so much?

Is it possible to suffer in extreme circumstances and still claim that it is well with your soul? Can people suffer extreme physical and emotional pain and still say that their inner person is strong and stable?
John’s third epistle was written to Gaius, a man who was facing many difficulties in his life. Even while selflessly supporting those who have given their lives for the ministry, he faced opposition from within the church. He was literally crushed between these situations. It was to this Gaius that John wrote:

“Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.” (3 John 2)

As a child of God, the condition of our souls can be well beyond our physical circumstances. We can live above our circumstances. Let the opposition come. Let the difficulties come. Whatever comes our way, we can live beyond all of that, and our souls can be well.
The key is that our relationship with Jesus keeps our soul in peace. John follows up the verse above with the affirmation that they are walking in the truth. Jesus affirmed that He is the truth when he proclaimed “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”
As we continue to grow in our relationship with Jesus, we are fully engrossed in a new realm. This realm takes us (our soul) beyond the circumstances of life. We continue to face all the difficulties of life, but simultaneously enjoy the realm of our souls engrossed in relationship to Jesus.
Your Turn
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Alexi George is a pastor, teacher, and writer. He is devoted to helping people live their potential.
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