Why do I have to suffer? If I am saved and a child of God, why does not God keep me safe from ill and harm? It just does not make sense. Cannot God receive great glory by keeping me from these evils? Will not God's deliverance and a better life drawn people to him?
For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; (Philippians 1:29)
Do these questions sound familiar? Have you asked these questions? If so, you are one of the countless number of believers who have experienced this struggle. The answer is in the scriptures, but it may not be simple nor easy to receive.
From the fall of man until now, man has always sought to have life focus around him and his desires. Wars have come about because of a clash in desires between people. Nations have tumbled by judgment because the people sought their own way. Religion is the work of man trying to gain the blessing of God based on merits or achievements. Any gain obtained in these situations would be wrought by man and at best sharing glory with God.
God however has a different plan. He has chosen the foolish and weak things of this world to confound the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27). By choosing the foolish and weak things, God is clearly recognized as the provider of the blessing, strength or deliverance. The lost and the saved experience the same problems in life: the former without hope and the latter by God's aid. When we were astray and wanted nothing to do with God, he sought us. He worked in our lives bringing us to the point of recognizing our sinful condition and need for a savior. Because he paid our debt on the cross, redeemed us from sin, adopted us into his family, became our father and blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places (Ephesians 1:3-7), he has the right to do with our lives as he pleases.
He continues to work in the heart of unbelievers and is drawing them to himself. When Christ is lifted up, all men will be drawn to him. By lifting up Christ in your life, men will be drawn to Him. His strength to you in trials and comfort in the midst of sickness, loss and trouble will lift up Christ before others. Because he does not use our strength, he solely receives the glory that he deserves.
This is why we experience trouble. This is why God allows us to experience sorrow, pain and suffering. We may not like it, but when we yield to him, we gain what truly is best for our lives.
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)
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