PART FOUR

God's Decisive Action in Hardship & Suffering

Is our suffering appointed, or is it accidental? In our journey through hardship and suffering, we often wonder if it’s by chance or part of a greater plan. In this reflection, we can use military operational language to help understand how God is actively involved in every aspect of our lives.

When we think of decisive, shaping, and sustainment operations, we can draw parallels to how God, in His sovereignty, controls and directs our experiences—especially in times of hardship.

First, we need to recognize that God is in control of all decisive operations. There is no action, not even the enemy’s schemes, that can override God’s eternal authority. As R.C. Sproul said, if even one molecule in the universe operates outside of God’s sovereignty, then we couldn’t trust any of His promises.

Thankfully, we know that God is sovereign, and every moment of suffering we experience has a purpose under His control.

In the same way that military operations have shaping and sustainment roles, God’s Spirit sustains us through hardship. We are sustained by His steadfast love, mercy, and unwavering faithfulness. The hope we have in God’s promises through Christ provides the logistical support for our spiritual endurance.

Hardship and suffering are not random or accidental; they are appointed by God. He uses them to shape us, to grow us in Christlikeness, and to mature our faith. If we fail to see suffering as appointed by God, we risk seeing it as meaningless or cruel. But, as Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, our troubles are light and momentary compared to the eternal glory they are working in us.

God appoints our suffering to shape us for His eternal purposes. Let’s keep our eyes on what is unseen and trust in God’s faithful hand through every trial.

Key Takeaways

• God is sovereign over all things, including our suffering.
• Suffering is appointed by God, not accidental, and has eternal purpose.
• We are sustained through hardship by God’s steadfast love, mercy, and faithfulness.
• Hardship shapes us to grow in Christlikeness and maturity in our faith.
• The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in sustaining and shaping us through difficult times.

Additional Scripture References

• 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
• Isaiah 40:31
• Psalm 55:22
• 1 Peter 5:10
• James 1:2-4

Study Questions

1. How does recognizing God’s sovereignty over suffering change your perspective on hardship?
2. In what ways have you seen God sustain you during difficult times?
3. Why is it important to see suffering as appointed by God rather than accidental or meaningless?
4. How does Paul’s message in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 provide comfort and perspective in your current struggles?
5. What practical steps can you take to grow in Christlikeness as you endure suffering?