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Your Question:
Is my pain a test of my faith?
Answer:
As a pastor and a believer, I've come to understand that pain can indeed be a test of our faith. The Bible teaches us that our faith must be tested, and that the testing of our faith produces patience (James 1:3-4). It's through these trials that we grow stronger in our faith and come to know God more intimately. When we say, "I believe God shall supply all my need," the testing of our faith begins (Philippians 4:19). Pain often serves as a wake-up call or reminder of our human brokenness and alienation from God, prompting us to seek outside assistance and turn to Him in repentance and faith (Luke 13:1-5). It's a reminder that we need God, and that He is our nearest environment (Doctrinal statement). As the Bible says, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one He has sent" (John 6:29). Our job is to believe, even when we're struggling with doubts and fears. It's essential to distinguish between depression and faith. Depression can cast a shadow on everything, including our faith, making it feel jubilant (as in the case of St. Basil, who welcomed both pleasure and affliction). However, that doesn't mean we don't or can't believe. Our faith is not about feeling a certain way, but about trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty, even when we're in the midst of pain and suffering. As the Bible says, "Yes, I will call on God, and the Lord will answer me" (Psalm 55:16).
Sources:
building dynamic faith
jerry falwell
elemental theology
emery bancroft
my utmost for his highest
oswald chambers
depression
edward welch
introduction biblical ethics
robertson mcquilkin
raising passionate jesus followers
phil diane comer
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