"Pray for _______ who is going through surgery."

"I need a new job. Please pray the interview will go well."

"I don't understand why God is allowing this to happen."

These are common, and understandable points of conversation between Christian friends. We are often asked to pray about a specific situation, and request a specific outcome. We often look at suffering as something to be prayed against, something that should not be happening. Paul would disagree.

Throughout chapter one of Philippians, we see Paul address his beloved friends who are concerned about Paul's imprisonment. Likely, they were praying that Paul would be freed, protected, comforted. Certainly that is a worthy prayer, right? Sure. But Paul uses the first chapter to remind them of some important truths...truths we are rarely reminded of today.

Verse 3: He is constantly thankful for them. In the midst of his own suffering, he finds ways to be grateful.

Verse 7: They share in God's grace with Paul, no matter his circumstances.

Verse 9: He wants their love and insight to grow. He prays for them to have discernment (perhaps to see what God is doing through Paul's suffering.)

Verses 12-18: He explains that his suffering has contributed to the greater goal of the Gospel being shared. Paul doesn't seem to be focused on a way out of his dilemma, but instead on what God is doing because of it.

Verse 18: He is determined to rejoice. Paul continually makes a conscious decision about how he will approach life. It's quite possible that Paul had a hard time rejoicing and so voiced his committment as a way to make himself live a rich and full life.

Verse 21: Paul has an eternal perspective. He knows that God can use him whether he lives or dies.

Verse 27: He reminds the Philippians not to base their Christian life on the outcome of his situation. It is easy to become discouraged in our walk with God when we see suffering in the lives of others and wonder why would allow such a thing.

Verse 29: Paul comes right out and states that suffering is part of the Christian life. He can't make it much plainer.

Is this perspective the one in which you view your challenges or the suffering you see in the lives of your family and friends? I rarely see people respond with the truths above. Instead there is often a frantic effort to do everything possible to relieve or avoid suffering. I know that's what I do. So often my life is about making it efficient, easy, peaceful and happy. I don't tend to embrace suffering.

What would happen if we did? If we encouraged our friends and family to embrace their difficulties as possible blessings from God?

Something to think about.