Why Do We Suffer?

Why do we Suffer?

Pastor Michael Church 10-25-06

Introduction-

All these words and other describe Suffering- sickness, bereavement, disappointment, heartaches, troubles, tears, sorrows, trails, difficulties, pain, woe, and misery

When we go through a time of suffering, if you want to see what God is up to in your life. Just put the little phrase “IS IT” in front of each because.

Notice example #1

1. {“IS IT”} Because we live in a fallen World

A. Genesis – That is there was no sickness, sorrow etc before sin enter the human race. Genesis 3

2. Because of God’s Chastening Hand

A. Unconfessed sin Heb 12;

David -2 Samuel 11:27; 2 Samuel 12:1-15, Jonah-whole book, The Prodigal Son- Luke 15:11-32, Aaron and Miriam Numbers Ch 12

Korah’s Rebellion Numbers 16:16-35

B. Partake of the Lord’s supper in an unworthy manner 1Cor 11:17-27, 29-30

3. Because of our pride -A Thorn in the flesh

A. To keep us Humble 2 Cor 12:7-9

B. Paul learned through this submission, humility, surrender to God’s will, a power he had never known, grace he had never experienced and joy that could not have ever known without suffering. Oliver B. Greene

4. Because it will bring Glory to God

A. John 9: 1-3

5. Because God Prunes/Grows Us---- God prunes us to make us more Christlike

A. John 15:1-8

B. James 1: 1-12

6. Because others need us--So we may comfort or sympathize with others who are or will go through the same things.

A. 2 Cor 1: 3-5

7. Because We Reap what we Sow

A. Gal 6: 7-9

8. Because we stand for Christ

A. 2 Timothy 3:16; Luke 6:22-23

9. Because we are servants of God. --- Spiritual Warfare in Heaven

A. Job 1&2

10. Because will use it to get others Saved

A. Acts 16 The Philippians Jailer