RESIST HIM, STANDING FIRM IN THE FAITH, BECAUSE YOU KNOW THAT YOUR BROTHERS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD ARE UNDERGOING THE SAME KIND OF SUFFERINGS. AND THE GOD OF ALL GRACE, WHO CALLED YOU TO HIS ETERNAL GLORY IN CHRIST, AFTER YOU HAVE SUFFERED A LITTLE WHILE, WILL HIMSELF RESTORE YOU AND MAKE YOU STRONG, FIRM AND STEADFAST. — 1 PETER 5:9-10
Why does God allow suffering? It is the question asked by both believers and non-Christians. God doesn't want His children to suffer. Enmity toward God produces suffering. And resisting Satan means going through lots of pain because we are fighting against the sinful nature around and in us. Gold is refined through fire, and so Christians can only grow to be more like Jesus if they die to themselves increasingly each day. That is painful. However, the outcome is stronger, bolder, and kinder believers who shine like gold because they radiate the light of Christ. God brings about this restoration and renewal. The follower of Jesus is also encouraged that she is never alone in her suffering. Jesus experienced the ultimate suffering by bearing the sins of humankind, and His followers throughout the ages suffer for teaching a rebellious world to return to God. He knows how hard it is, and He is right there beside His daughter giving her greater hope and peace.
LET'S PRAY:
God of all grace, help Your daughters stand firm in their love of You. Enable us to remain strong and steadfast so that we can have faith as great as a mustard seed, which can move mountains.
