It
was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. (Psalm 119:71)
Here
we are graced with a profound and unexpected admission. In his suffering, the
writer reaches out to his Maker and, in the process, learns God’s commands. The
remarkable thing is that after everything is said and done, the writer
acknowledges that suffering has actually turned out to be beneficial in his
life. If I hadn’t suffered, I may not
have learned your ways.
This
is not in any way saying God causes our suffering. Though some would disagree,
I do not believe God intentionally brings us harm for the purpose of making us
better. I know the plans I have for you,
declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you (Jeremiah
29:11). The Scriptures make it clear
that life holds enough hurts without God adding any to the mix. Each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew
6:34). In this world you will have
trouble (John 16:33).
What
is true though is that if we bring
those hurts to God, and submit to his Lordship, from even the worst days he will
bring us good. In all things God works
for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his
purpose (Romans 8:28).
The
next time suffering rears its ugly head, thank God that it doesn’t have to be
for nothing.
What
is God teaching you this week?
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