As we wrap up this series on "GOOD" OUT OF BAD, let's review:
We found out from Paul that God causes everything to work for our "good". That "good" is that God wants us to glorify Him as we become more like Jesus Christ.
One of those "good" results is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN TEACH US. Remember, God's purpose is to make us Holy, not happy.
Another "good" is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN GLORIFY GOD THROUGH US. When Christians personally apply the truths of Who God is, in their lives, God is glorified through the pain and suffering of His children.
PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN PURIFY US. The trials that we face in life are part of the process that God uses to refine us by "fire". If we respond to the "fire" by trusting God, our faith is strengthened and we become useful to serve God.
God's discipline proves that He loves us even more than we understand. Another "good" out of bad is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN MATURE US. Our loving Father uses it to help us grow up to be more like Jesus Christ.
PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN EQUIP US TO COMFORT OTHERS. God doesn't always remove our troubles, but He always provides comfort as we endure life's hard times. God is equipping us to some day bring His comfort to others.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about another "good" result that can come out of pain and suffering?
PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN REACH US AND OTHERS. Life's trials often cause people to seek answers to difficult questions. Only Jesus Christ offers hope because He died to forgive our sins and rose from the dead to prove that He alone is the answer to the ultimate question about life and death. Can others see your hope in Christ?
Are you ready and willing to tell them what Christ has done in your life?