As continuationists, we hold a vibrant belief in a God who is powerful, present, and actively involved in our lives. We embrace the potential for healing and celebrate the miracles that testify to His love and transformative power through the Holy Spirit. Yet, how do we reconcile this confident faith with the inevitable presence of suffering? What do we do when illness strikes, relationships crumble, and life presents challenges that seem impossible to overcome?

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This is the question the Remnant Radio team recently wrestled with, seeking a balanced perspective on Christian suffering that honors both our belief in God’s power and the often-difficult realities of life in a fallen world. We began by acknowledging that some within charismatic theology circles can inadvertently oversimplify this complex issue, offering platitudes that, while well-intentioned, can be deeply hurtful and unhelpful to those experiencing genuine pain. However, we also affirmed the foundational truth that God remains a healer, a provider, and an unwavering source of strength, even in the midst of our most intense trials.

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So, how do we navigate this tension? How do we hold onto faith when faced with the problem of evil and the seeming absence of God’s intervention? Here are a few key principles we believe are essential to consider:

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• Acknowledge the Reality of Suffering: The Bible doesn’t shy away from depicting the reality of suffering. From the story of Job to the letters of Paul, we encounter righteous individuals who endured immense hardship, debilitating illness, and relentless persecution. Recognizing this reality is the first step toward a more authentic understanding of faith.
• Embrace the Mystery of God’s Sovereignty: We don’t always know why God allows suffering, and it’s not only okay to admit this, it’s essential for humility. There are times when we must simply trust in His infinite wisdom and acknowledge His ultimate sovereignty, even when we cannot possibly fathom His ways.
• Anchor Yourself in God’s Unchanging Character: In the midst of suffering, it’s easy to question God’s goodness and begin to doubt His love. However, it’s crucial to remember that God’s character is unchanging. He remains loving, compassionate, and faithful, regardless of our circumstances.
• Seek Strength and Support in Christian Community: Suffering is not meant to be endured in isolation. Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow believers who can offer encouragement, fervent prayer, and practical assistance as you navigate your trials.
• Look for Redemptive Purpose in the Pain: While suffering is never inherently good, we believe that God can ultimately use it for good. He can use our pain to refine our faith, deepen our compassion for others, and draw us into a more intimate relationship with Himself.
• Fix Your Eyes on the Hope of the Resurrection: Our ultimate hope is not found in earthly comfort or a life free from suffering. Rather, it’s anchored in the promise of the resurrection and the glorious reality of a new heaven and a new earth, where all tears will be wiped away and all suffering will cease.

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We can confidently hold onto our belief in God’s power to heal and transform lives, while simultaneously acknowledging the often-harsh realities of suffering in this fallen world. By embracing both of these truths, we can offer a genuine message of hope and lasting comfort to those who are hurting, pointing them to the One who is able to sustain them through every trial and ultimately bring about a future filled with unimaginable glory.

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Click here to watch the full episode.

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