James 1:2-4
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
I am currently reading about the sufferings of Job, in a book found on www.Godspurposes.org. I have heard the story of Job many times, but I have never taken the time to study the deeper meanings found in his sufferings. I am just beginning to study this online book, but God is already using it to teach me more about Him.
When we go through trials, we often question why God is allowing us to suffer. It’s not because He does not love us, if He didn’t, He would not have sent His son for us. So why, if it is in His power to take away our suffering, doesn’t He? I am not an expert in this area, but I will tell you what I know.
The Bible speaks of Christians being like as gold, that when it is taken through the furnace, or we through trials, purification occurs. The heat refines the gold, ridding it of impurities, just as, trials refine our faith and rid our lives of those things not pleasing to God. In order to grow in your faith, trust, and understanding of God, trials are necessary.
If all Christians lived blessed lives, everyone would follow Christ, but not for the right reasons. It is in suffering that we see if our faith is real. When we are facing suffering, we can either curse God for it, or trust that He will bring us through it with renewed faith.
Suffering brings us to a place where we have to quit relying on ourselves, and rely completely on God. When we learn to have faith in God in all things, good or bad, we can learn to have a deeper relationship with Him. It often takes times of suffering for God to become real to us, and for our relationship with Him to become all that matters.
If you are going through trials, times of suffering, or just want to learn more about God, I encourage you to check out the above website. Pray that God will help you to trust in Him completely and strengthen your faith in Him.
In a seemingly hopeless situation, look to God. Only in Him, is there found true hope and peace in suffering.
