I don't know anyone who likes to suffer. I certainly don't. But because God created us and because from time to time pain and suffering is part of our life I figure there's a purpose for it. In fact, I can come up with a long list of reasons fairly quickly.
However, several days ago while sitting with my mother after she'd had open heart surgery I couldn't think of one. All I wanted was to release my mom from the agony. Instead, I sat beside her holding her hand feeling helpless. That night I cried myself to sleep.
But God's Word says, "Suffering produces perseverance, perseverance character and character, hope."
Mom is better. I thank God.
As to pain, well it will continue to be part of life. Physical pain protects us from injury. Our lives would be short if we never felt the weaknesses in our body. Suffering is a teacher. Travails of the soul draw us closer to God where He waits to catch us and pull us into his embrace.
Though I sometimes rail against it, I cannot deny that pain is good. I am grateful for it.
Praise God in all things.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
