There was a couple who were missionaries in their younger years, but after returning to their home country, both of their sons were found to have a genetic disease that attacked the nervous system. One of the children is now blind and in a wheelchair, needing someone to take care of his basic needs. As parents, they still have a passion for life, taking care of their children without complaint. There was a sister in Christ, who was actively involved in the evangelism and missions ministries in church. For twenty years, rain or shine, she went once or twice a week to a remote area to share the gospel and teach. But not long ago, cancer invaded her body. After surgery and chemotherapy, her body was too weak, and she had to stop the ministry.
These people who serve and love the Lord were met with such unfortunate events. How can we explain their situation?
Some believe that if believing in God still leads to this sort of thing, it is better not to believe. Others believe that those in trouble must have some breach in their lives to allow Satan’s attack, leading them to that state. Still others believe that God is not dependable. Since they served God for so many years, why does God not protect them? The Bible is not silent towards the unfortunate events of life: “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice in as much as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” (1 Peter 4:12-13)
The writer wants us to treat suffering with an ordinary state of mind, because tests in life will definitely happen. We ought to rejoice, because we are able to participate in Christ’s suffering, which is a glorious thing.
Pastor Rick Warren said that God’s ultimate purpose for your life is not for your comfort or enjoyment, but for the building of life. God wants us to grow in Christ and learn to become more like Jesus. Life’s sufferings do not negate God’s love and power, because life is not about our comfort and our enjoyment , but it is about the work God wants to accomplish in our lives. In the two true stories above, these believers are full of faith every day, trusting in God and giving a beautiful witness. They know that life is not about themselves, but about God.