CHRISTIANS AND SUFFERING

I have heard many preachers (especially common under the wealth, health and prosperity gospel) teach that Christians should not and shall not suffer. Different reasons are given for this, ranging from not giving enough tithe, not being a prayerful enough, not being delivered etc.

After giving this much thought I decided to do a little research on the same and here are some of my findings;

1. Christians will suffer;

a) Christ suffered while here on earth and because he is our example we too will suffer.

b) Christians are called to take up the cross daily- this entails suffering.

c) Suffering is a reminder that we have not reached the new heaven and the new earth where there will be no tears.

d) God uses suffering to discipline his children because he loves us.

2. Reasons for suffering

a) To equip us for ministry. We are able to help those going through difficult times because we have passed through them.

b) Prepares us for glory

c) To teach us;

•  Obedience

•  Patience

•  Purity

d) To correct us

e) To refine us- produce more fruit

f) To discipline us-he disciplines those he loves

3. Suffering helps believers to;

• Examine and judge ourselves

• Confess sin because he is faithful and just to forgive sin

• Pray

• Keep Gods word.

 

4. Correct reaction to suffering

 a) Acknowledge that;

•God is control.

•God is with us. All things work together for good to those that love the lord.

•God is good and suffering is working towards your ultimate good. Suffering is just for a season, for a while.

•Pray without ceasing.

Rejoice and thank God.

NOTE: In suffering, righteousness can be maintained. No matter how severe the suffering is, it will pass and everything will work out fine for those that trust God.

He never promised that the cross would not get heavy and the hill would not be hard to climb, he never offered victories without our fighting but he said help would always come in time. Just remember when you’re standing in the valley of decision and the adversary says give in just hold on our lord will show up and he will take you through the fire again (extract from through the fire by Jason Crabb).

                                                                             Always,
                                                                                     kay....