"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." (Romans 8:18, NIV)

Walking with God Through Suffering

   Nothing is more important than to learn how to maintain a life of purpose in the midst of painful adversity. I firmly believe that there is a purpose for all the adversity, pain, and suffering we endure during our temporary assignment on earth. When faced rightly it can drive us like a nail into the love of God and help us grow in our faith. In the book of Job his friends were sure that if things are going well for you, your are living rightly with God and he's pleased with you. And on the flip side they believed if things are going badly for you than you are living wrong with God and he has abandoned you. When they considered Job's circumstances they were sure he had done something wrong and this was his punishment. 

   Job's friends thought is was easy to discern God's purposes and plans. As we continue to study through this book in my bible study group I've found Job's sufferings were actually quite mysterious and God's purposes were hidden from him throughout the scriptures. BUT the main point of today is as follows. Out of all of Job's suffering came one of the most profound revelations in the bible. Job's character was completely transformed and his sufferings were redeemed beyond anything he could have imagined.

   So as I close for today my encouragement is for you to reflect on this if you are going through a hard season or use Job's story and lessons as preparation for future spiritual battles. God's purposes are often every bit hidden and obscure as they were in Job's life. The way up is down and the truth is all growth takes some form of suffering. Suffering is unbearable if I let the devil trick me into believing that God is not for me and with me in all my struggles. But the more I walk with God, the more I learn i cannot defeat all my suffering with knowledge or will. When I am completely exhausted of all my knowledge and my will is fully depleted I realize when i have nothing left, God is all I truly need. Trust more, Fear less. Understand that you can find your purpose and meaning in life through your suffering. Believe that pain is not something we should always avoid or view in a negative light because it's in our pain where we see the true power of our Lord and savior. We must face our suffering like Christ with patience and courage. I pray that everyone has a great year with an abundance of health and happiness.

Love you guys,

Frank