Suffering for a Godly Reason

Suffering can be a gift from God, leading some to lean into God more. This perspective is counter-cultural, as our society prioritizes comfort and ease. Jesus said those who mourn will be comforted, and in suffering, one can receive Jesus' presence and gifts. Suffering can deepen faith and draw people closer to God.

“I heard this cancer patient the other day say, “I'm so grateful God has given me such a rare gift, in the same way that he only gives some riches. Because it's a dangerous gift to give someone. I'm so grateful that he's given me suffering because it's a dangerous gift to give. It causes some people to run from God, just like riches, but it causes some people to lean into God more.”

Suffering in life wasn't just against them, that God was doing it for them.

Our culture hears that, and it blows their mind to believe that God can use pain and suffering because we're so enamored by comfort.

So the next time you're going through something difficult, maybe stop and pause and wonder, is this a gift?

Jesus is pretty clear in his Sermon on the Mount:  “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matt 5:4)

In the middle of your suffering, you look to Jesus and receive the gift Jesus gives, his presence, more of him.