A Purpose Behind the Problem

2 Corinthians 4:6-17 (17)
 
What good comes out of trials? This is the second letter from Paul to the believers in Corinth to defend his position as an apostle and to denounce false teachers who twisted the truth.
 
Paul reminds us that although struggles come, do not give up hope.

Our bodies are subject to sin and suffering.

God never abandons us.

Though our bodies are perishable containers, focus on the priceless contents (Jesus in our hearts).

Trials are opportunities to demonstrate Jesus’ power and presence.

Our responsibility is to let people see Christ through our lives.

• Romans 5:3-4, But we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.
• Romans 8:18, For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
• Job 23:10, But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
• 1 Peter 4:16, Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

 
Trouble produces patience, patience produces character.
Many people become bitter instead of becoming better.
Trials may be necessary for the Holy Jeweler to transform the hardness of our hearts to gleaming gems.

 
What tool will He need:

• Jeweler’s hammer
• Sledgehammer
• Jack hammer

 

• Malachi 3:17, And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.

 
If we look at the world – we will be distressed.
If we look at self – we will be depressed.
If we look at Jesus – we will be in rest.
Do not ask for comfort, ask to be conformed.
Trials help us to learn to rely on God.
 
When people see you go through trials, do they view it as a sign of weakness, a sign of instability, or the inability to cope? Do they view your trial as a sin manifesting itself? How should we portray ourselves during trials? Should others see our inner travailing? Should we hide our trials?
 
Do we ask others to help us pray? If not, we may not receive the answer or a blessing. If not, we may prevent others from receiving a blessing. If not, someone may not come to know Jesus as their personal Savior.
 
Our troubles should not lessen our faith. There is a purpose for the suffering. We should our troubles as opportunities to let the Lord's light shine through us.