Why does God allow us to suffer?
The author of 1 Peter 3 starts by saying that no one can do the early Christians harm when they do good. It is possible to overpower the ungodly with good because goodness is grounded in the Gospel. But when they are persecuted for doing good, they must see it as a blessing because Jesus promised in Matthew 5:10. “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Their suffering must be seen in relation to the suffering of Jesus. His suffering was enough to bridge the gap between God and humanity and redeem us from our sins. He also suffered while He was innocent and righteous. His suffering lead him to die but He was resurrected by God’s Spirit.
We do not know the answer to the WHY-question. A theologian once said that to ask the WHY-question is non sense – it does not make any sense – because there is no answer to this question. We need to have faith and hope in God despite all the hardship and suffering! God is in charge and knows what is going on! Nothing can separate the believer from God – not even the evil and dark forces of this world! Amen
Amen
Friday 17 April 2020
1 Peter 3:17
“For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.”
Lord, Bless us now with your grace and mercy,
that as your people in the world,
we can proclaim your marvellous deeds
and declare your goodness in all creation. In our suffering help us to keep trusting in your goodness and mercy, now and always.
Amen
Listen to and read the words of the hymn: “To God be the Glory”
Easter 2020 ● Volume 3, Issue 5 ● Balerno Parish Church