Biblical Answer

The Question of Why

As a faithful servant of God, it can be perplexing to understand why God allows us to suffer and face difficulties. The Bible teaches us that we are not to expect a life of ease and comfort, but rather one of service and sacrifice. In the story of the two sons, one obedient and the other disobedient, Jesus teaches us that our service to Him is not about seeking reward or recognition, but about faithfully following His commands. As His servants, we are called to trust in His sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of trials and tribulations.

The Purpose of Suffering

The Bible teaches us that suffering can be a means of purification and growth, as we learn to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty. In the story of the three servants, the third servant who was unfaithful and unproductive was punished, while the first two servants who were faithful and productive were rewarded. This teaches us that our service to God is not just about doing what we are told, but about doing it with a right heart and a willingness to trust in Him. As Paul writes in Romans 8:28, "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." This means that even in the midst of suffering, God is working out His purpose and plan for our lives.

The Call to Serve

As God's servants, we are called to trust in His sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of trials and tribulations. We are not to seek reward or recognition, but to faithfully follow His commands and trust in His goodness. As Jesus says in John 15:16, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask the Father in my name the Father will give you." This means that our service to God is not just about doing what we are told, but about trusting in His goodness and sovereignty, and bearing fruit that will last. As we serve Him, we must determine exactly what is owed to us by those who have hurt us, and seek to forgive and trust in Him, even in the midst of suffering.