How Then Shall We React When Suffering?
Firstly, , we need to understand God the Father's attitude toward suffering. He is a Sovereign God who works all things according to His perfect wisdom and will. He does not see suffering as something evil to avoid. Rather, He harnesses it to become an instrument for our eventual good and His glory. He knows the end from the beginning and can use the evil intentions of persecutors to actually achieve His will and our eventual blessing. Peter states, "For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. {20} But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God" (1 Peter 2:19-20) In contrast to God's commendation, suffering, in the eyes of the world is a thing of 'shame'. Unfortunately, if we lose sight of God's sovereign wise control over suffering, it is possible for us as believers to begin to view our suffering with the same attitude as the world. That is, we then begin to feel 'ashamed'.
But this need not occur if we remember Peter's encouragement. "{16} However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name." (1 Peter 4:16) Being a disciple of Jesus Christ is never something of which we should be ashamed.
Secondly, there is the human sense of 'fear' which springs up in the heart so naturally at times of suffering. Note our risen Saviour's encouragement to the Church at Smyrna, "Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Revelation 2:10) Peter also writes "But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed, "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." (I Peter 3:14)
Thirdly, one of the hardest emotions to handle is the 'surprise' aspect of suffering, especially when being suddenly accused as an evildoer. 'Why should this happen to me?' is our cry. Peter also has an answer to this - "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. {13} But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed." (1 Peter 4:12-13)
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Topic: Blessing Ba Gihapon Kun Naa Kay Suffering? (Read 4476 times)