Encouragement
Suffering, pain, and trials. Some faiths tell us that these three are caused by bad behavior. Others would have us believe that God never wants us to undergo trials. Some religions, such as Buddhism, say that bad past behavior or bad karma can affect what happens to us.
The Christian Bible has a lot of examples of adverse situations, and often focuses on a desired outcome rather than the WHY.
I want to start with two quotes by people of the Christian faith. Lee Strobel, a pastor and author, writes, "Courage would be impossible in a world without pain." Makes sense…
C.S. Lewis, an author, asks, "Why should the righteous suffer?" He replies "Why not? They're the only ones who can handle it."
These two quotes focus on the middle and end of suffering, not the cause. Actually, regardless of the reason we suffer, we have to trust that God has a reason and that we will come out better than we went it.
Nobody can really explain, in a emotionally-satisfying way, why we need pain. Who can understand it in the midst of personal tragedy? But to know that, through the valley, we shall have SOME benefit, prepared by God for us.
In Romans 8:28, the Bible says that God works all things for the good of those people who love him and are following his purpose.
Similarly, C.S. Lewis says, in The Problem of Pain, "Pain hurts. That is what the word means. I am only trying to show that the old Christian doctrine of being made perfect through suffering is not incredible. To prove it palatable is beyond my design."
We cannot know the purpose, nor can we really explain it or sooth any pain by our explanations, but God can.
Next time you go through something, ask yourself what you can learn, or what positive effect you can find. Of course, do this in a calm, quite moment.
Secondly, take time to read the Bible and pray. There are lots of encouraging verses you can read, like the above verse, or 1 Peter 1:7. And prayer can connect you to God and make you more confident in your relationship with Him.
Prayer really works, and when someone prays for you, you can feel refreshed and renewed, and you will experience a new sense of God’s presence.
You can visit wepray4.com and leave a prayer request. Others will pray for you and send advice. You could also go to local church where people would also be happy to pray for you.
The Bible says “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” (james 5:16)
Andrew Scribner - [email protected]
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