There is nothing like persecution to raise indignation, Yet Jesus said,
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:10
The Father is aware of our suffering for righteousness. Why is he allowing suffering? Remembering that Jesus suffered and that when we suffer, he is suffering with us. Here are some thoughts,
Why does Jesus allow the persecutor to do evil?
Love lets us develop as people, and the path begins badly. The Lord challenges our wickedness but does not make our choices for us. When I go with Jesus rather than pushing my will, there is an opportunity to express faith and love. I am a person in process and learning to go with Jesus takes false starts that harm others. My poor choices have made me a persecutor and an enabler to persecutors. The Father looks beyond, in hope.
Why does Jesus allow harm to come to his children?
Jesus develops us as people. We only have an inkling about his aims, but we do know Jesus! As I share life with him, the greatest growth comes through the greatest challenges.
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ”
2 Corinthians 12:9
Life is about knowing Christ and being filled with him. When I have suffered with Jesus then I suspect that in heaven, those will be the finest moments.
Greater love has no one than this, that he lays down his life for his friends.
John 15v13
How willing are you to go with Jesus through persecution and suffering?
Photo by Luis Quintero
One thought on “Why Suffering”
“Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.””
Matthew 11:28-30