“Why is there suffering in the world?” The question is asked by atheists, intent on using the existence of suffering as proof that there could be no God. The question also comes up among the faithful who are challenged by the very real suffering that exists and who feel overwhelmed by the enormity of it all. We know, but easily forget, that much suffering arises from the fallen nature of our world.
However, part of our problem is that we see suffering as always a bad thing. This isn’t the case. Sometimes suffering is used by God to bring us to Himself. When we are broken by the sufferings of life, we run into the arms of our Abba Father, Daddy God. Remember how the churches filled up on the days after 9/11 or after Hurricane Katrina? When there is suffering or danger, he gathers us to himself, calls us by name, and tells us we are his own. Our tender heart and aching soul listen and respond to his call. When we are still and rest in his arms, we begin to recognize the basic truth that God is God and we are not. It is at these times that Jesus truly becomes our all. We learn to have intimate fellowship with him, which carries us through our pain. He becomes the fortress that surrounds and protects us, the rock to which we cling, and our shelter from the storms of life. We recognize that we do not need to fear—no matter what the circumstances—for He protects our souls from whatever comes. Everything else in life fades into the background in the light of his presence. Time spent with him in worship, prayer, and the Word becomes precious. He becomes our great reward, and that is sufficient.
If we are honest we “suffer” more than we admit. There is power in the honesty for in our weakness, His power steps in. On Sunday night we will close out our series on “Being the Church” as we explore “Being Transparent about our Trials.” Come and join us… For some suffering, at least, we need to give thanks.
Be blessed.
Nick
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