The Joys of Trials and Suffering The Apostle Paul regarded trials and sufferings as opportunities for us to glorify God and to strengthen our faith in Him (Daniel 3:16-18, 24-25). Here are just a few examples: to be disciplined by our loving Father for our sanctification which yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness (Hebrews 12:5-11; James 4:17; Romans 14:23; 1 John 1:9); to prevent us from falling into sin (1 Peter 4:1-2); to keep us from pride (2 Corinthians 12:7-10); to strengthen our faith (1 Peter 1:6-7); to cause spiritual growth and maturity (Romans 5:3-5); to teach us the importance of obedience and discipline (Acts 9:15-16; Philippians 4:11-13); to equip us to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4); to prove the reality of Christ dwelling in us (2 Corinthians 4:7-11). After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you (1 Pet. 5:10). Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him (Jas 1:12). Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind (Jas. 1:2-8).
Posted on: Thu, 02 Oct 2014 20:08:00 +0000