Why do we suffer? Why does God allow us to suffer? What is God’s purpose in suffering?
Listen to Susie’s discussion with author and journalist Philip Yancey. He shares what he’s learned from the valleys of his life. Then we hear from a woman whose courageous faith in God prevented a massive school tragedy, and the suffering of hundreds.
Philip describes his own suffering, losing his father to polio at the age of one. Despite the fervent prayers and support of his friends and church family, Philip’s father died. In his words, “If you feel grief or outrage at suffering, you’re in good company. You can only imagine how God feels. God is on the side of the sufferer.” Philip was invited to speak to the community of Sandy Hook after the devastating school shooting. “I do believe I could stand before those parents and say, ‘Your child is safe in the arms of God right now.'” We do have something solid to offer a world that is groaning and in pain.
We encounter suffering and tragedy every day – but God often intervenes to prevent horrific acts of violence. That’s the story of Antoinette Tuff, a woman working at a Georgia elementary school. In August of 2013, a gunman entered the front office of the school and threatened to kill everyone. God was with Antoinette and gave her strength and supernatural calm to talk to the gunman and convince him to surrender. Because of Antoinette’s obedience, eight hundred children were spared. Antoinette talks about what it means to be Prepared For a Purpose.
How can we make sense of bad things in the lives of repentant people? We know this – God is close to the brokenhearted and He gives us His presence in the storm. He does not promise answers in this life but He promises to walk with us every step of the way and give us grace for each moment. Jesus bore the storm on our behalf, and because of His sacrifice we can bear the sorrows and grief knowing that they are preparing us to act as heroes for God’s purposes. Remember, in Dallas Willard’s words, “Nothing irredeemable can happen to you.”
Key Scriptures: Psalm 23
Theme Song: Cornerstone by Hillsong
Highlight : Trusting God in suffering
Image: Flickr
