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“Why is there so much pain and suffering in the world? I’m afraid God is going to ask me the same question.” – Brandon Edwards
We all have burdens and deal with suffering. Matthew 5:45 says, “that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” Being treated equally is first introduced in Scripture. Regardless of the demographic we represent, everyone deals with challenges. God shows grace and care for all His creatures; as Jesus’ disciples, we are to imitate God. We are to love those who are challenged with health, social, emotional, and financial challenges. Christians are to love the sick, the well, their neighbor and their enemy.
Christians are not immune to suffering. James 1:2-4 says, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience, but let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” We sometimes think our obedience to Christ will prevent pain from coming our way. Trials will test Christians. Our response to affliction will make us steadfast and encourage others.
Distress should not create distance. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. When people are confronted with bad news and battles, Christians should respond with time and tenderness.
Helping those who suffer will require Christians to apply Scripture with a period and not a question mark.
Allen Jones
Glasgow, KY
BulletinDigest.com