The theme of the new "Faith under Fire" series in the worship service is actually similar to the one from Philippians, of having JOY no matter the circumstances. My Pastor started this series with a message on Job from Chps 1 and 2, as the greatest example of loss and the greatest lesson on suffering. Some quotes that really stood out:
- If tears were indelible ink, we would all be stained
- We are moved by two things: pain and beauty
- Living by FAITH is not for cowards
- Suffering is not an option but misery is a choice
It was clear from the passage, that suffering can happen to good people who love God, are rich, and live a life of privilege. Seven foundational facts about suffering given:
- God can accomplish His greater purposes through suffering ("Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him" - James 1:12; and "For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings" 1 Corinthians 4:9)
- Satan wants to cast doubt on our integrity
- Satan wants to cause us to curse God
- God sets boundaries on trials and tests
- Calamity can strike unexpectedly and without warning
- One source of suffering is evil people driven by jealousy and greed
- Another source of suffering is the dysfunction of the fallen natural order (sins effect on creation)
We can learn from Job's responses to his suffering: grieve the losses, worship God, refuse to listen to critics and skeptics, and trust God and allow for hidden higher purposes. God is not the source of suffering and evil; rather He is the only savior from it.
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