If God asked for a show of hands from those of us willing to suffer to disciple others towards Jesus, my guess is He wouldn’t get a rousing response. There must be a better way. I can teach others about the great news of Jesus without suffering to do so, right?

Joni Eareckson Tada is a beautiful example of how God uses our suffering to bring others to Jesus. In her book, Through the Roof, she writes, “The world can’t see Jesus endure suffering with grace because He’s not here. But you and I are.” Joni’s life on earth has been filled with difficulties and long-suffering. Yet, Jesus uses her daily as a witness for His great love. Through her life, she has been and continues to be a fragrance of the love Jesus has for each of us. Although no one longs for suffering, we can give thanks for the opportunity to use our suffering in our personal ministry to others.

Seize an opportunity to be the fragrance of God’s love in someone’s life.