Biblical Basis of Suffering

Gate 4: Trials, Growth and Humility

Consider it pure joy my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds... -James 1:2

When you encounter the word “suffering” what comes to your mind? It talks about misery, pain, and hardship, right?

Left to right: Luigi, Joy, Warry, Sharon, Talon, Dia

In this world, there are many ways or reasons people suffer; maybe through lack of money, broken family relationships, loss of shelter, natural disasters and calamities, disabilities, other people’s decision fallen world system or being disobedient to God. But some sufferings come even or because of our obedience to Christ.

There are many men and women of faith who were chained, stoned, sawn in two, destitute, mistreated, tortured etc. as a result of their faith. Hebrews 11

Jesus, the beloved Son of God was a man of sorrow and acquainted with suffering.  Many who obeyed the Lord did great things and also faced great sufferings for their obedience.

Just because we are obedient in the Lord’s will does not mean there will be no suffering. Suffering is normal. Don’t be surprised. God wants us to be prepared to face suffering as we obey Him, to understand that these sufferings are light and momentary, and that these sufferings can help purify us and make us complete.

As we continue this journey of faith, may we all find inspiration and encouragement from the stories of the many ordinary people like us – known and unknown – who obeyed God and even find pure joy in the midst of suffering.

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      - Dia, 26

South Cotabato