We have been considering how God uses the suffering in life that we all encounter.
The apostle Paul had an interesting perspective on suffering. As one who had been beaten, stoned, abandoned and shipwrecked, he knew about suffering. In 2 Corinthians 4:17, he said, “Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
I think that was Paul’s way of saying our current trials are small potatoes compared to the coming good times. In Romans 8:18, he went on to say, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” That is an incredible perspective from a man who had learned to trust God in the face of incredible suffering.
I don’t pretend to know how he does it, but I believe God can bring good from our suffering. Just look to the cross. Never was such evil perpetrated on one man. Jesus who knew no sin became sin for us. The perfect, sinless and innocent son of God was judged and condemned, whipped, beaten, stripped and crucified. He encountered this level of incredible suffering so sinners like you and me, guilty and condemned ourselves, could be healed. He did it so we could be saved. His sacrifice made it possible for us to be forgiven and free.
Jesus gave meaning, purpose and dignity to suffering. We may not fully understand why suffering has come, but let’s remember it has a purpose. Let’s pause to consider what God may be saying through our suffering. And let’s never forget God often uses suffering to refine in us the image of his son.
Looking back on my own life, I would have to say I have learned the most in times of difficulty, not comfort. I have grown more in the valley than on the mountaintop. Suffering has drawn me closer to God than success.
That does not mean I like it. I don’t. In fact, I hate to go through periods of suffering, and I am always saddened to see others who enter these dark periods. But I choose to believe that even in our suffering, God is at work, he is achieving his purpose and I can trust him. I hope you have made that choice yourself. It is a decision you will never regret.
The next time suffering comes your way, are you willing to ask, “God, what are you up to? Is there a lesson I need to learn here? Are you trying to get my attention?” Do you believe that God is at work in our suffering?
Steve Greene is the lead pastor of The Point in Seymour. Read his blog at pastorgreene.wordpress.com or email him at [email protected]. Send comments to [email protected].