SUFFERING IS RIGHT

"God brings men into deep waters not to drown them, but to cleanse them." - James H. Hughey

Throughout my first year in Africa, I've often reflected on the idea that "suffering is right." Experiencing suffering is justified when it comes to fulfilling God's purpose in our lives and furthering His mission. This has been a challenging concept for me, as like most people, I instinctively wish to evade suffering whenever possible. I have never encountered anyone who genuinely takes pleasure in suffering. Suffering affects our thoughts and emotions in ways that we find unpleasant.

I made a list of a few reasons why I hated suffering and why I believe many others hate suffering.

Suffering:
1. Exposes our Weaknesses 

During times of suffering, whether it's the loss of a loved one, financial difficulties, or losing friends, our lack of control over every aspect of our lives becomes evident. I believe that one of Satan's deceptions, dating back to the Garden of Eden, is convincing humanity that we can control our lives like God. This is essentially what Satan told Eve: "Eat from the tree and become like God!" Who wouldn't want that? Who wouldn't want to become like God and have control over everything in life? When we experience suffering, we are confronted with the truth of our own limitations.

Suffering:
2. Exposes our Idols

Whenever I am experiencing difficulties, what is the first thing I do? I immediately create a new schedule, look for a different workout routine, set "S.M.A.R.T." goals, and focus on controlling what I can (referencing the first point). This process reveals that my initial reaction is to hold onto things I can control rather than relying on the One who holds ultimate power. My immediate thought is, "How can I, as a husband and father, protect and provide for my family?" Understand that protecting and providing for one's family is necessary, honorable, and holy! My personal risk lies in idolizing my roles and forgetting the Father’s role. Just as I desire to protect and provide for my family, He also wishes to protect and provide for me. Yet, time and again, my priorities in times of suffering reveal my tendency to idolize schedules and control. I turn to my idol to solve the problem first before turning to my Creator.

Suffering: 
3. Exposes our Sins

Whenever I encounter suffering, I notice my tendency to revert to past vices. Suffering reveals our true nature. Just as squeezing an orange yields orange juice, and squeezing a lemon yields lemon juice, putting a person under pressure through suffering reveals what's truly in their heart. Suffering is challenging because it shows us how deep our roots in Christ are—or how shallow they might be (see Matt. 13:1-9). Currently, during our period of suffering in Africa, my old acquaintance Pride has resurfaced. Pride has been with me since my father left. While it never completely disappeared, it had greatly diminished. Now, in this season of hardship, Pride has grown more than ever, and my patient wife has pointed out that it's more evident than before, lol.

So, why is suffering, which exposes our weaknesses, idols, and sins, considered right? I suggest that suffering is not only right but NECESSARY for the very reasons we dislike it. Suffering reminds us that we are NOT God, which is a vital and beneficial realization.

EXPOSING OUR WEAKNESSES: We need to understand that we are not God and cannot control everything. This realization frees us to live in His goodness and sovereignty.

EXPOSING OUR IDOLS: We must recognize the idols in our hearts so we can eliminate them and maintain unwavering loyalty to the sovereign Lord. This process is challenging but sanctifying and GOOD!

EXPOSING OUR SINS: Discovering our true nature is essential for me! Understanding how much I trust Him and believe in His word is a difficult but necessary journey. I want to be tested and remain steadfast in my convictions.

IT IS MY ASSERTION THAT SUFFERING IS NOT ONLY RIGHT IT IS NECESSARY IN THE LIFE OF THE BELIEVER.

To what degree? That depends on the person, situation, and path of the Lord. But it is necessary nonetheless.