Coping With Suffering

Text: “For you were called to this, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you should follow in His steps. (1 Peter 2:21)

I. Be Prepared for It

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23).

ping

A. Suffering began when sin began. It is the lot of fallen mankind. All are subject to it.

B. Prepare for it physically. Proper nutrition, exercise, and fresh air help. Sufficient insurance, savings, and dependable doctors are needed, also.

C. Prepare spiritually. The assurance of forgiveness and cleansing by the Holy Spirit affords the greatest help when suffering strikes (Rom. 3:22).

II. Be Patient in It

“I waited patiently for the Lord … and he … heard my cry” (Ps. 40:1).

A. Many people lack patience. They waste time, effort, and money on quick cures and quack methods when suffering strikes.

B. Some people become resentful. They blame others for their suffering. Their impatience makes it more difficult to receive help.

C. We must strive for patience during suffering (1 Peter 2:20). We should do the best we know to do, and then rest on God.

III. Be Prayerful Through It

“Men ought always to pray, and not to faint” (Luke 18:1).

A. Some blame God for their suffering. They fail to pray. Their neglect causes them to drift from Him.

B. During suffering, we must be more prayerful. We draw nearer to God by reading His Word and practicing implicit trust (Ps. 119:71).

C. God always has a purpose in what He allows to come (Rom. 8:28). Let us look for the reason and seek His purpose.

IV. Be Productive Because of It

“Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has actually resulted in the advance of the gospel,” (Phil. 1:12).

A. Suffering may bring a new awareness of God’s power and presence.

B. Suffering may make us more effective for God. Experiencing the sufferings that others go through brings compassion and understanding.

C. By our example of faith and trust, others will place their confidence in God (1 Tim. 4:12–16