Hope and suffering – 10 October 2006

Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.  Romans 5: 3-5 [NIV]

Recently the terror threat level in the UK as defined by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre was raised to “critical” and then lowered to “severe” – are we more secure than we were 2 months ago?  Ultimately, we live amidst insecurity – no matter how safe our environment may appear there are always people intent on breaching security in order to wreak havoc in our lives. 

In the same way Satan is hovering close at hand - to frustrate our good plans and inflict suffering on us.  The lure of sin is the momentary gratification we feel, the cost of sin was the death of Jesus in our place – not something we can trivialise.  The consequence of sin can last a lifetime.  Sometimes our suffering is linked to our sin – but often, we do not know the reason for our suffering and without the perspective of God we cannot claim to have all the answers.

Those who have suffered have shown much perseverance (like Job), and this perseverance has lead to a stronger character (like Peter).  Are you suffering at the moment?  Is someone evil causing your suffering?  Don’t give up hope!

Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.

Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret— it leads only to evil.

For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.

A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found.  But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace.
Psalm 37:7-11 [NIV]

Lord, renew our hope whether we are in times of comfort or distress.  Bless those who suffer in your name and bring them the reward they deserve.  In Jesus name, Amen.

Dave MacLellan