Suffering

The Word of God tells us a lot about this subject. Specially in the

first letter of Peter chapter 2 till 5 we can find the clear teaching that we

as christians are "called to suffer" [1 Peter2:21 ]. It speaks of two kinds

of suffering. First: the suffering for Christ sake, meaning persecution and

reproach, because of our Faith in Christ. Second: the suffering because of our

sins and the need for correction. Sickness is a major part of this second kind

of suffering, although sin is not always the cause of our sickness.

The book of Job makes that very clear. Job was not stricken because

he had sinned, but because God wanted to proof his loyalty and righteousness

and altowed Satan to put sickness on Job. The bible calls suffering for well

doing "better"than suffering for evil doing. [1 Peter3:17]. This implies that

all suffering is good for us.

We are admonished in 1 Peter4:15 not to suffer for being an evil

doer and called happy when we are reproached for the name of Christ. [ 1

Peter4:14 ] We are also told that afflictions are common to all brethern worldwide

and that after you have suffered II a while", God will establish us firm and

strong". (1 Peter 5:9 and10]

That sickness is a major part of our afflictions and suffering is an

undenialble fact. Paul mentions this kind of suffering in Col.1:24, where he

is speaking of 11 the afflictions of Christ in my flesh". Most likely, he was

speaking of the thorn in his flesh which was given to him.[2Cor,12:7]. We

should realize the our Father God chastises His sons every time there is a need

for it. [Hebr. 12:7]. His purpose is to purify us and make us more Christlike.

And many times He seems to use sicknesses and finances as His major tools to

accomplish this. In Hebrews 12:11 He makes the statement that "it seems

grieveous" but then assures us that afterwards it will yield "the peacable fruit of

rightenouss". Therefore in a sense, this kind of suffering can also be

considered for" Christ sake and His Glory"

Jesus learned obedience by suffereing according to Hebrews 5:18. How

much more are we in need to learn this obedience . Although many of our

sicknesses are self induced by mistreating our bodies, however for christians it is

still our Lord at work to purify us. When Satan is used, he has to be allowed

by our Father God to afflict us . We are encouraged to endure, even to be

happy and rejoycing when we are suffering, much against our human nature. However

it seems that the Lord allows us "to sorrow" about sickness.[Phil.2:27]. But

we should remain steadfast by believing in our Fathers everlasting Mercy.

We know that all things work for the good of those who love God and

are called according to His purpose. [Romans 8:28]. Know also that if we

suffer we shall also reign with him.[2Tim.2:12]

Yours truly in Christ, Johannes G Weiss

=======