Job, out of his wretchedness and deep anguish, once declared that “Man who is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble” (14:1). It may not be the whole story, but it is a significant part of it. Early or late all of us will face some heartbreaking adversities. Suffering is not pleasant, but it is beneficial.
Suffering discourages evil and punishes evil doers. The wise man would have us know that “the way of the transgressor is hard” (Proverbs 13:15; ASV). The punishment for sin is sin. When we transgress GOD’S perfect law, we suffer. This suffering prompts the good and honest heart to obey.
Suffering reminds us of the vanity and brevity of life. The wise man would have us know that “life under the sun” is not always blue skies and rainbows. Consider these words soberly: “Better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for that is the end of all men; and the living will take it to heart. Sorrow is better than laughter, for by a sad countenance the heart is made better. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, But the heart of fools is in the house of mirth” (Ecclesiastes 7:2-4; NKJV). Suffering and death reminds us to be about the business of redeeming time.
Suffering serves to strengthen the faith of Christians. Christians “greatly rejoice” in their salvation (1 Peter 1:3-6). Although trials grieve us, they serve to encourage us that our faith is genuine (1 Peter 1:6-7). The genuineness of our faith and the assurance of our salvation results in rejoicing “with joy inexpressible and full of glory” (1 Peter 1:7-8). The end of our suffering is deliverance (1 Peter 1:9). Learning to rejoice in sufferings is a sign of maturity (James 1:2-4).
Suffering often provides opportunities for evangelism. Painful times in the life of Paul led to “the furtherance of the gospel” (Philippians 1:12). In our times of suffering, it is possible for it to be “evident” to all who come to know us that our “chains are in Christ” (Philippians 1:13). Paul shared in the sufferings of Christ and as a result was given the opportunity to share Him with others (Philippians 1:12-18).
Father, help us to see the benefits of suffering as we look to you in faith for deliverance. In Christ, Amen.
Jason
