One of the reasons this couldn't be farther from the truth is revealed in suffering.
When we go through hard times the first question that usually comes up in our minds is, "WHY?" Indeed this is one of most profound and important questions in all of life. Why do bad things happen? Why does suffering (and evil for that matter) exist? And most importantly, what role does God have to play in it?
This is where your theology will come in - whether you're aware of it or not. Here's how.
When something catastrophic happens in people's lives they typically ask one of a few questions about God's role in the calamity:
1) Why did God do this to me?
If you believe that God causes everything in the world to happen (including evil) then this would be the question you would be asking. It's a hard one to answer.
2) Why would God allow this to happen?
If you believe God does not cause evil, but at the same time controls the world to the point that nothing happens unless he allows it, this would be a question you might be asking. Again, this is a hard one to answer but it is more biblical than the previous one. A secondary benefit is that it is also more comforting.
3) What does God want me to learn through this?
If you believe in Romans 8:28, that God works all things for the good of those who love him, and in James 1:2-4, that suffering produces maturity and growth, then this question would be appropriate. I would contend this question is always appropriate, however you might not know the answer until long after the event is concluded and its effects played out.
4) How can I suffer and grieve in a way that glorifies God?
No matter what other question you might ask... this is the one that is always appropriate and always has an answer. Scripture tells us the answers... you just have to search it out. While this one does not help you understand the tragedy, it does put the focus where it needs to be - on God and not on you.
In any case your theology (what you believe about God and his ways) will automatically come out during times of suffering. Therefore it's important that you work out a biblical and accurate theology now before you enter into those times of suffering. I can't imagine how people cope with the death of a child if they believe it was the decreed will of God.
Recently I read an article on Matt Chandler, pastor of the Village Church in Dallas, Texas. Matt had brain cancer and is now one year removed from discovering this disease and dealing with it ever since. Matt recounts how his theology helped him through the ordeal in that he was constantly reminded that, "He (God) is good and He does good."
Spend your life acquiring those simple truths of God (theology) that you can hold onto so that when trials come you will be constantly reminded of them.
Hey man, I just discovered your blog here and thought I would comment.
ReplyDeleteVery insightful. It is hard to rejoice in suffering like I think it was Paul suggested, but there is a level of peace you can gain by putting yourself outside of your situation and asking what God is doing in the midst of the pain. I struggle a little with depression, so this really hits home.
Nolan... thanks for reading and commenting!
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