Just about every Christian knows what Romans 8:28 says about all things working together for good to those who love the Lord. But, let’s face it,we often feel that our suffering serves no good purpose. That’s why it is crucial that we conduct ourselves according to the facts, rather than our feelings. The fact is that our suffering can make us better and more useful.
Several years ago, a woman said to me of her former pastor, “He was a good preacher, but he had not suffered enough trouble in his life to be a good pastor.” That reminded me of a story told by the famous preacher G. Campbell Morgan: “A young fellow entered the ministry, and had remarkable success, and great blessing has attended his life and work. At the time he was a young man fresh from college, a brilliant preacher even then. He preached in my church in Birmingham, and I went home after the sermon and said to Mrs. Morgan, ‘Was that not wonderful?’ She quietly remarked,’Yes, but it will be more wonderful when he has suffered.’ “
That wise woman understood that suffering can make us better and increase our usefulness. History proves that it is true. The greatest of God’s servants have suffered greatly. They accepted their trials and allowed them to do their work of transformation and they benefited from them. It can be the same with you.
Those who have suffered the most painful experiences,whatever they be, often become the most compassionate counselors, effective examples, and talented teachers. Regardless of what we are forced to go through, it can make us better, and more beneficial to others— if we don’t get bitter. So then, let’s determine, by the grace of God, to embrace our suffering for Christ’ sake, knowing that He has promised to use it for good.
