Why the Suffering?

(Devo by Christine Serrano)

‭‭‭‭‭Psalms 119:71 [71] It  is good for me that I have been afflicted, That I may learn Your statutes.

Friend, do you ever wonder why we suffer? Why do we experience difficulties in life that filter into our thoughts and behavior? Why do we face trials that challenge the way we see ourselves and others? 

Psalm 119:71 not only tells us exactly why but it says our suffering is good! How could suffering be good? It is good because it turns our attention back to God. It reminds us that our Omniscient, Omnipresent, and Omnipotent Father in Heaven allows all things to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Our suffering draws us to the One Who suffered the greatest. The One Who was rejected by His own creation yet willingly placed Himself on an old rugged cross in order to pay the price for our sins. He shed His precious Blood and died in our place so that we may have everlasting life. 

Our suffering brings us back to Jesus Who understands our sorrow and our darkness. He says, "Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. My yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11: 28, 30). Jesus also says, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you. I give not as the world gives so do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27).

Jesus loves us so much in that "while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8) so that we may have overwhelming victory in Him. So why is suffering good? Because it brings our attention back to Jesus Who paid the price for our sins, Who wants us to rest in Him, Who gives us His peace, and tells us not to be afraid because He has overcome all suffering 💜

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Romans 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on the Name of Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation (Romans 10:13).