God’s Handbook for Dealing With Suffering

In this life, suffering is inevitable. People will hurt us and difficult circumstances will come our way. Sometimes, we will even suffer while doing the right things.

I Peter 3:14-16 says, “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience.” God’s handbook for dealing with suffering: 1, live righteously; 2, count your blessings; 3, remove fear; 4, remember God is in control; 5, be prepared to defend the hope that you possess; and 6, live so that your conscience is clear.

Opening Doors

Often, we are invited into someone’s home. Other times we may choose to visit someone’s home. When the doors open, you can feel whether or not we are truly welcome. Does the door open to warm greetings and invitations or does it open to an unexplained coldness? The door that opens to unity is one of welcome and encouragement. Oh sometimes, difficulties may come, but the Spirit of unity enables us to endure and continue to encourage each other.

Romans 15:5-6 says, “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Unity requires endurance and encouragement. Our words matter. So speak uplifting words to one another and faithfully endure through the rough times in relationships. The world will take note and be drawn closer to our God and harmony.

With the Wind

During my morning walk, I encountered a strong wind. As we all know, walking with the wind at my back, sped my along my way, while walking against the wind slowed me down. The Bible describes God coming swiftly on the wings of the wind to answer our prayers.

Psalm 18:9-10 partially describes how God answers our prayers when it says, “He bowed the heavens and came down; thick darkness was under his feet. He rode on a cherub and flew; he came swiftly on wings of the wind.” God moves heaven and earth to answer our prayers. Though we may not quickly see the answer, God swiftly begins the answer to our prayers.

This Changes Everything

Most of us have people in our lives that change us just by their presence. These awesome people may be a spouse, our children, appear mentor, or a teacher. In addition, we have had experiences that change us. These experiences may come in the form of tragedies or profound joy. These people and experiences change the courses of our lives.

Exodus 15:11 says, “”Who is like you, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?” Nothing and no one can compare to our God. He is majestic, holy, awesome, glorious, and wonderful in His essence and in His deeds. God’s presence and His deeds can change our lives in so many wonderful ways.

Thoughts and Actions

Have you ever looked at a messy room or garage and thought, “I really need to clean up this mess”? Then, days and weeks go by and you have not lifted a finger to begin to clean up the mess. Your proper thoughts do not help clean up the mess. I have done this many times with thoughts of doing good things.

I John 3:17-18 says, “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” Words alone do not demonstrate love and do not bring people together. How we respond to needs demonstrates the quantity and quality of our love for others.