So You Think You're Not Good Enough?Sample

I'm a Christian, so why does God let me suffer?

One of the most troubling issues some Christians face, especially in their early walk, is the expectation that when they come to Christ, nothing will go wrong. Some believe that they should not suffer sickness, mishaps, or trials and tribulations once they come to Christ.

However, when we examine the scriptures, we find that this is not the case. Christians suffer all of the same issues as non-Christians, in addition to being persecuted simply because they are Christians.

So, you might wonder, why become a Christian? Where is the value if I am still going to suffer?

The value is in the hope of salvation offered to all who call upon the name of Christ and the fact that when Christians do suffer, they can take all of their problems to God, who provides help in times of need. We learn to rely not on our own strength but rather to lean on God, who will deliver us from all perils.

Many times in the Bible, we see how God rescued His people from trouble. Paul suffered numerous afflictions and then gives thanks to God for rescuing him from each and every one. Yes, he suffered, and yes, he was greatly afflicted, but never was he so severely attacked that God could not or did not rescue him.

The sufferings of this age, while they seem horrendous at the time, are nothing compared to the eternal weight of glory we are promised when we endure suffering. You cannot compare a few years of suffering with an eternity of love, peace, and joy. There is no comparison, so we must remain steadfast.

Hold fast to the promise of God that no test or temptation we experience will be beyond our strength to endure. Even in difficult times, God is watching to ensure that whatever we are going through will not break us. In fact, with the temptation, He provides the way of escape so that we can endure.

Sometimes we go through difficulties to discipline us so that we learn and grow. But again, the outcome of God’s discipline leads to peace, maturity, and strength in Jesus Christ.

We have to go through these things like the rest of the world. But they do not have a loving God watching and ensuring persecutions do not break them.

Call to Action:

Remember, when you are going through trouble, it is for your strengthening, and God will not test you beyond your strength. Remember also the afflictions Job suffered, but he did not turn from the Lord God and was blessed for his faith. Be filled with the joy of the Lord, which is the deep and abiding knowledge that despite our afflictions, God has a plan, and He is in control.