What other Scriptures affirm the concept of suffering as part of human existence? Starting Point: Job 5:7 “Yet man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward.” The verse states a universal truth: life in a fallen world inevitably includes hardship. Wisdom Books Echo the Theme • Ecclesiastes 2:23 – “For all his days are sorrows and his labor is grief; even at night his mind finds no rest. This too is futile.” • Ecclesiastes 7:14 – “On a day of prosperity be happy, but on a day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other…” • Psalm 90:10 – “The length of our days is seventy years—or eighty if we are strong—yet their pride is but labor and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.” • Psalm 34:19 – “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all.” • Proverbs 14:13 – “Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief.” These passages reinforce that sorrow, toil, and adversity accompany every stage of life. The Prophets Acknowledge the Pain • Isaiah 53:3 – “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief…” • Jeremiah 20:18 – “Why did I ever come out of the womb to see only trouble and sorrow, and to end my days in shame?” • Lamentations 3:1-2 – “I am the man who has seen affliction under the rod of God’s wrath. He has driven me away and made me walk in darkness rather than light.” Prophetic voices highlight both personal and national suffering, confirming that hardship is woven into human experience. Jesus Speaks Plainly about Suffering • Matthew 5:10-12 – “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake… Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven…” • Luke 9:23 – “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” • John 16:33 – “In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world.” The Lord sets realistic expectations: following Him does not remove trouble; it supplies victory within it. The Early Church Lives It Out • Acts 14:22 – “We must endure many tribulations to enter the kingdom of God.” • Romans 8:18, 22 – “Our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us… the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time.” • Philippians 1:29 – “It has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.” • 2 Timothy 3:12 – “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • 1 Peter 4:12-13 – “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial… but rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ…” The apostles treat suffering as expected, purposeful, and ultimately temporary. Purpose Woven into Pain • James 1:2-4 – Trials test faith, develop perseverance, and lead toward maturity. • 2 Corinthians 4:17 – “Our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison.” Scripture teaches that hardship refines character, deepens dependence on God, and magnifies future glory. Putting These Truths in Perspective • Suffering began with the fall (Genesis 3) and continues in every generation. • God forewarns His people so they are not disheartened when hardship arrives. • Christ’s victory ensures that suffering is temporary and purposeful, never random or wasted. • Believers are invited to face trouble with confidence, knowing the Lord walks with them and will ultimately redeem every pain. |
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