Why do faithful believers suffer? So often we
get frustrated, down and even depressed when God allows us to go through a
tough situation. We grow weary because of a financial need, disease, a death
in the family, a problem on our job, etc. We start questioning God. The
cares of this life seem to be too much. We even think about giving up. We
start questioning our faith. We start questioning God.
But, faithfulness in God does not guarantee
believers freedom from trouble, pain and suffering. In fact, Jesus taught
that we are to expect it (John
16:1-4, 33). Job, Joseph, David, Jeremiah and Paul are just a few godly
people who experienced significant amounts of suffering.
So, why does God allow faithful believers to
suffer? One reason is so we will grow spiritually. God has allowed suffering
to get people to depend on him for their needs to be met. Whether you need
salvation, healing, deliverance, food, clothing, shelter, a friend..., God
can supply all of your needs according to His riches in glory.
Think of it this way...
- How can you know the "Lilly of the Valley" unless you go through
the valley?
- How can you know the "Bright and Morning Star" unless you go
through the "Valley of the shadow of death"?
- How can you know the "Great Physician" unless you experience
disease?
- How can you know the "Good Shepherd" without experiencing his
rod and staff?
- How can you know God's perfect love unless you experience a broken heart.
How can you experience the - miracles of God without a need?
- How can you experience "The friend who stick closer than a
brother" without first experiencing loneliness?
- How can you experience God's exceeding abundance without first being in
need?
If you are suffering right now, just
remember...God promises to bring good out of all of the sufferings and
persecutions of those who love Him and obey His commands (Romans
8:28).