December 13, 2011
By: Julie Clinton

"... we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." Romans 5:3-5

Loss. Divorce. Death. Cancer. Ever ask God why? I think we all have. But to "rejoice in suffering?" If making sense of pain in our lives is not difficult enough, now we’re also told to rejoice in it? You're probably wondering what Paul was thinking when he wrote this. "Was he in his right mind?"

He sure was. He saw the purpose of pain—to build perseverance and character. However, it only comes when we’re obedient to God in the midst of the "why."

You may never receive the answers to the why questions you have. Even with Job, God neither explained his suffering nor helped him make sense of his loss (Job 1 and 2). In the end, Job found peace—not in answers, but in a deeper desire to live in the presence of God (Job 42).   Your love for Him in return cannot be based on how you think He is treating you. Instead, you are to trust Him and His goodness no matter what happens to you or how you feel—simply because He is God.

Prayer
When trials and problems come my way, Lord, and all I want to do is ask why; forgive me. Calm me with Your presence. Soothe me with Your love. Show me that by enduring I will become stronger and closer to You. Amen.
  • Bible Readings for the Week Ahead:
  • Monday: I Peter 4:12-13
  • Tuesday: Psalm 18:30
  • Wednesday: Romans 4:20-21
  • Thursday: Psalm 118:8
  • Friday: Job 22:29
  • Saturday: Romans 8:38-39
  • Sunday: Isaiah 35:3-6