Question of the Week- 4.12.10

The Question:
The bible says something to the affect of "All things work together for good to those who love God, who are called according to His purpose." Could that also be a situation where you suffer your entire life only to have your perseverance be a testimony to inspire others? Is this referring to the greater good for everybody or is there always a "come up" for the individual sufferer?

Rev's Review:
Romans 8:28 is one of my favorite scriptures in the Bible! It says (in the New International Version), "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose".

The two most important words in this verse is "GOD WORKS"! I believe that each of us can look at some situation in our life and declare that it is or was "BAD". What do we do with the "BAD" stuff in life? As the submitted question says is there a "greater good for everybody"? I am encouraged today by this question because it reminds me that my life...your life...our lives are not about us!

I do believe that most things that we go through can be utilized as some of the most powerful witnessing tools ever known! In other words, yes- I do believe that sometimes we "suffer" in order to build a testimony to inspire others. However, I believe that we cannot be so overcome by what our testimony can do for others that we neglect what it means for ourselves. In a few chapters earlier, the book of Romans tells us that we should rejoice in our sufferings because it produces perseverance and perseverance produces character and character produces hope! (Romans 5:3-4) Now, I believe that is a benefit worth having! What this literally declares is that my experiencing a suffering is not to tear me down, but it is destined to build me up! It teaches me to persevere and it develops my character according to God's will.

So, there is a "come up" for the individual...but there is also a "come up" or benefit for those who see our suffering as well! Remember, in all things GOD WORKS for the good!!! It is not up to us to make "good" out of "bad" things or even to try and figure them out! As we trust God, we will begin to develop as believers. As we develop as believers, we are building a testimony that encourages others. However, it is that same testimony that will encourage us.

Rev's Conclusion:
When we experience moments or seasons of suffering, don't give up! When we experience moments or seasons of suffering, don't try to create the good! However, when we experience moments or seasons of suffering, let us remember that GOD WORKS it for our good! Not just a personal good, but a corporate good!!! Write down your testimony!!!

Blessings,
Pastor C