Let me start by first saying this, because we are correctly positioned squarely in the center of God's will doesn't mean we will always understand the working of God in our lives, or that we will avoid suffering. As Christians we suffer when we are disobedient, and we suffer when we are obedient.
God uses suffering for different reasons. Sometimes to discipline, sometimes to teach, and believe it or not, sometimes to bless us. When we are disobedient He is faithful to correct us, because He loves us.
Hebrews 12:8-10, "But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness."
God uses suffering for those who are walking with Him to teach us, and to bless us. I Peter 2:20-21, "For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps."
I Peter 3:13-17, "And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you are blessed. And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled. But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil."
Suffering is part of our Christian walk. Fortunately we have His promises to sustain us. As we commit our lives to Him let us rest in His great love and care for us.
I Peter 4:12-14, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the spirit of glory and of God rests upon you."
I Peter 4:19, "Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator."
Leo Kruger is pastor of Valley Christian Fellowship and is a member of the Carson Valley Ministers' Association.
