Why Do We Suffer?

Sometimes we seem to have the idea that if we are suffering, if things are not going smoothly for us, we are not in God's will. In actuality, the opposite is often true. Sometimes God lets us go through trials in order to teach us, to refine us, to strengthen us. Romans 5:3-5 says "And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us." Some suffering is simply a result of living in a fallen world. As long as we live on this Earth, we will encounter illness, physical and emotional pain, financial distress etc. Only in Heaven will there be no suffering at all. Some suffering is brought on by our own mistakes and sins. Sometimes people are quick to blame satan for financial problems, work problems, marriage problems, and the like. Sometimes he is the cause. But often, it's easier to blame satan than to admit to our own responsibility or do the hard work required, in order to overcome the problem. However, some suffering is inflicted by Satan, in hopes of discouraging us and leading us off the difficult, narrow path. If we are trying to do things God's way, the devil certainly isn't going to make things easy for us. Sometimes we underestimate Satan's power. The Bible tells us that we should expect difficulties. Jesus was unequivocal about this. He told us in John 16:33-"These things I have spoken to you, that in me you might have peace. In this world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." He didn't say, "you may have trials and sorrows." He didn't say, "if you stray off the right path you will have trials and sorrows." Nope. He says "you will have tribulation and trials and sorrow." So how are we to deal with them? Instead of being bitter or depressed or discouraged, we should hear the words of the Apostle Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:18-"In everything give thanks."Paul didn't say "if things are going your way, be thankful." He said "no matter what happens," be thankful. Be thankful for God's grace and peace that will keep you in the trials.