As we go through times of trials and testing we need to process any trial properly before it becomes a destructive or debilitating part of our past. As we consider our response to that suffering, it is wise to get in the habit of asking ourselves, “Do I really want to wear that response, in my heart?” One key essential that will help us practice authentic suffering in coming days is learning to benefit from the sustaining Gospel. The power of the sustaining Gospel enables us because of 4 points: 1. We can be encouraged because we have a crucified Savior – This aspect of the sustaining gospel gives depth, perspective, and meaning to our suffering. His death proves His love for me, and enables us to draw near to God so that we do not have to sin as we suffer. 2. We can be comforted because we have a Sympathetic Savior, The Bible reminds us that He was tempted in every way that we were (Hebrews 4:15) 3. We can be amazed because we have a risen Savior. Because He is alive, His presence fills us through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. 4. We can be … READ MORE

One of the hardest things we have to work through is that bad things happen to good people. When this happens our view of God is critical to our answer and each of us will have to decide what place the Bible should have in this process of evaluation. Genesis 50:20 is a passage where Joseph (cf. the historical account of his life in Genesis 37-50) shares with his brothers that he knows that they meant evil when they sold him into slavery, but God meant if for good. God has plans for our lives, and while we may not understand His plans, it is our responsibility to trust Him in them. We must recognize that pain and suffering are an inescapable part of this life, and deal with them accordingly. In doing so The Bible identifies some things we can do. 1. remember God’s Word encourages us to be prepared for suffering because trials are inevitable (James 1:1-5) 2. Understand that there is not always a direct link between suffering and individual sin (book of Job) 3. Let suffering deepen our walk with God (Matthew 11:28-30) 4. Remember God promises that He will not give us more than we … READ MORE

Our past is a silent companion that accompanies us wherever we go. Yet the Bible gives us several was our past can be among our best friends. 1. When we need strength and confidence we can remember how God has worked in our lives in the past remembering “He is the same yesterday, today, and forever” Hebrews 13:8 2. When we need encouragement and balance we can look back in our lives and be reminded of God’s providential direction in our circumstances. (Jeremiah 33:3) 3. When we need the ability to forgive, we can remember how much we have been forgiven by God, and take our struggle to the cross of Christ (Matthew 6:12, 14-15). 4. When we are struggling with pride, we can be reminded that we have nothing apart from the grace of God. (1 Corinthians 15:10) 5. When it is time to repent, we am reminded that all have sinned (Romans 3:23) and that I am no better than any other person (1 Timothy 1:15). Remember, that our past actions do not define us today, and by God’s grace we can learn from them and be better tomorrow.… READ MORE