January 27, 2016
The problem of pain is perplexing. Why do bad things happen to good people? If there is an answer to this enduring mystery, it is to be found in the suffering of God's Son.
"But the Lord was pleased To crush Him, putting Him to grief; If He would render Himself as a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, And the good pleasure of the Lord will prosper in His hand." (Isaiah 53.10)
It might seem sadistic of our Creator to be "pleased" to crush His Son, but His sacrificial death would result in His resurrection and exaltation, and the salvation of all who would come to saving faith through Him. Long-term benefit outweighed momentary suffering.
Suffering and tragedy are not easily qualified. Who truly knows what benefit will result from adversity? Character development, that positively impacts the individual and others around them, can reap far greater rewards than there would be otherwise.
None wish to suffer, including myself. But, if real character development results, then adversity ought to be embraced rather than lamented. ("Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials" James 1.2 emphasis added)
Likely none of us will live a trouble-free life today (or any day). Pondering the plan of God for His Son will help us better see the plan for the pain as it comes our way.
Steve
"But the Lord was pleased To crush Him, putting Him to grief; If He would render Himself as a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, And the good pleasure of the Lord will prosper in His hand." (Isaiah 53.10)
It might seem sadistic of our Creator to be "pleased" to crush His Son, but His sacrificial death would result in His resurrection and exaltation, and the salvation of all who would come to saving faith through Him. Long-term benefit outweighed momentary suffering.
Suffering and tragedy are not easily qualified. Who truly knows what benefit will result from adversity? Character development, that positively impacts the individual and others around them, can reap far greater rewards than there would be otherwise.
None wish to suffer, including myself. But, if real character development results, then adversity ought to be embraced rather than lamented. ("Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials" James 1.2 emphasis added)
Likely none of us will live a trouble-free life today (or any day). Pondering the plan of God for His Son will help us better see the plan for the pain as it comes our way.
Steve
©Steve Taylor, 2016
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/
Amazon ebook & print devotional http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW
paperback print copy
https://www.createspace.com/4500045
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/
Amazon ebook & print devotional http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW
paperback print copy
https://www.createspace.com/4500045
posted by steve @ 7:51 AM
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