Why is there suffering? How do we find JOY in the midst of our suffering?


Why is there suffering in the world?
A.      God created a beautiful world and gave humans volition (the power of using one’s own will). (Genesis 1 & 2)

B.      God gave us instructions on how to live well.  We can choose to follow God’s advice or choose to go our own way. (The book: The Bible.)

C.       Problem is that when we choose to go our own way we create brokenness.  That brokenness impacts everything and everyone! (Genesis 3 & 4)

D.      There is suffering in the world because people choose to disobey God’s wise advice and the earth, our bodies, and our relationships have suffered as a result. (Romans 8:18-22)
So how do we find Joy in the midst of the suffering?
A.      Recognize that Joy flows from God & we become conduits of this Joy when we worship God. (Psalm)

B.      Joy comes from guilt-free living & by humbly following the life example of Jesus Christ. (Ecclesiastes 9:7; Phil. 2:1-4)

C.       Joy also comes from acknowledging our freedom from sin, the flesh, decay, and death through the sacrifice of the cross. (Esther 8:17; Romans 6; Colossians 2:9-14)

D.      Joy is a fruit of the Spirit given to those who have received Christ. (Galatians 5:22-26)

E.       Joy comes from recognizing new life. (John 16:21; Luke 15:7; 1 Thess. 2:17-20)

F.       Joy comes from placing our hope in the right place & person.  Joy is placing our hope in the God who will fulfill his promises. (1 Peter 1:8-9; Rev. 22:1-5; Rev. 21 - 22)

Scripture to Read:




Comments

Linda said…
Lovely and inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing.
3:37 PM
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