Tuesday, August 7, 2018

Twenty Reasons Why God Allows Suffering In Our World

No one likes to suffer. At least no well adjusted person enjoys suffering. No wonder when you consider the definition of suffering: "The bearing of pain, inconvenience, or loss; pain endured; distress, loss, or injury incurred; as, sufferings by pain or sorrow; sufferings by want or by wrongs. Being in pain or grief; having loss, injury, distress, etc."

This week I will be dealing with this long-standing problem of pain, "Why would a loving God allow suffering?"

Today I will give an overview and the break it down during the balance of the week. First, I want to share a precious verse of Scripture that any suffering person can cling to for hope: "And we know that God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them." Romans 8:28

Here are twenty reasons why God allows suffering in our world:

1) Suffering reveals what is really in our hearts.
2) Suffering breaks down our pride.
3) Suffering can deepen our desire for God.
4) Suffering can mature us.
5) Suffering can produce humility
6) Suffering may be a warning to prevent something potentially worse.
7) Suffering can jump-start our prayer life.
8) Suffering may cause a lost person to receive Christ.
9) Suffering may lead a Christian to confess sin.
10) Suffering can deepen our trust in God.
11) Suffering can prove the truth and reliability of Scripture.
12) Suffering can help us learn from and appreciate other Christians who were victorious in suffering.
13) Suffering can take our focus off of this world.
14) Suffering can teach us first hand that God is truly sufficient and trustworthy.
15) Suffering can connect us with other sufferers.
16) Suffering can create an opportunity for witness.
17) Suffering can lead a person into Christian ministry.
18) Suffering can cause us to appreciate our blessings.
19) Suffering can position our lives to bring glory to God.
20) Suffering, when properly handled, will result in rewards in heaven.

If you are in the midst of suffering. Cling to that verse and check over this list. Chances are some of these will resonate with you.

It helps to know that our pain has a purpose!