Alex on #Suffering

Myth: Accepting Jesus Christ as your Savior will make life easy

Fact: "In this world you will have trouble." (John 16:33)

Haven't faced trouble, hardship, or suffering yet? It's coming soon, believe me! There is so much pain in our lives each and every day. All of us can talk about something we've faced in our own lives that hurts deeply. And if anyone ever tells you that a relationship with Christ will take away all of your problems, they couldn't be further from the truth.

However, Jesus doesn't leave us hanging. He doesn't say, "Hey, man, welcome to my friends list! Oh, and by the way, you're going to be facing some really tough issues for the rest of your life. Alright, bye, dude! See you later!" Nope! That's not Jesus at all.

I quoted John 16:33 earlier, which says, "In this world, you will have trouble." But it doesn't end there. The verse goes on to say, "But take heart! I have overcome the world." That's Jesus talking, reminding us of his love for us. 1 John 4:4 says, "...the one who is in you [Jesus] is greater than the one who is in the world [Satan]."

No one can explain away your hurt and difficulties, but it can help to understand why you're in pain. God allows suffering and difficulties in our lives for many reasons. He doesn't cause pain, because God is all and only good. One reason God allows pain in our lives is so that we can grow. Sometimes our parents let us make our own decisions, so that when we are left with the consequences, we'll have to deal with them; it's a maturing process. God also allows pain to bring others to him. If a friend or acquaintance of yours sees God's work in your heart and life, that might inspire them to seek out a relationship with God.

Remember, God can take a horrible situation and use it for something good and beautiful. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."