The Furnace of Affliction

Pain and Suffering: Grabs Our Attention!

When we go through painful experiences or face the reality of having to live through trying times, our faith in God should increase as we seek shelter from suffering. Whether or not you are currently suffering physically or emotionally, you will, at some point, be faced with the choice to stand firm in your faith in God or want to lash out and cast blame. You may blame yourself, blame someone else, or get angry and turn away from God. Before you do that, remember God understands suffering. He suffered for us on the cross as the perfect sacrifice for our sins because He loves us unconditionally. Because of Christ's sacrifice, we have put our faith in Him in the hope of spending eternity in Heaven someday. It is the same faith that gives us hope amid suffering. There are several stories in the Bible where Jesus healed people not only because of His compassion but because of their faith. God wants us to have resolute faith regardless of the pain and suffering we are exposed to or experience. Jesus stated in John 16:33 that we will have tribulation but to take courage in remembering that He has overcome the world. Understand the pain in your life has a divine purpose. Trust God's plan for you!