Biblical Answer

The Nature of Christian Living

Christian living is not a life of easy self-indulgence, but a life of overcoming sin and growing in faith. It is a life of battling against the tendencies of depression, which can lead to passivity and a lack of faith. However, this battle can be a catalyst for growth, strengthening our character and deepening our faith. Jesus Christ himself modeled this kind of suffering in his service to humanity, and it is a necessary part of the Christian life.

The Role of Suffering in the Christian Life

Suffering is a natural part of the Christian life, and it can be a source of growth and character development. While it may be difficult to understand and accept, suffering can be a means of refinement, like gold being purified in a fire. It is through suffering that we are able to see the true nature of our faith and the strength of our character. As the apostle Paul wrote, "We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4).

Finding Hope in the Midst of Suffering

In the midst of suffering, it is easy to lose hope and feel like giving up on our faith. However, this is not the response of a true Christian. Instead, we must seek the Lord and trust in His goodness and sovereignty. We must remember that our struggles are not in vain, and that God is working in us to complete His work. As the Bible says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). With this hope and trust, we can overcome even the darkest of struggles and emerge stronger and more faithful than before.