1 Peter 4:12-13 English Standard Version (ESV)
Suffering as a Christian
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
1 Peter 1:6-7 English Standard Version (ESV)
6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Job 2:10 New International Version (NIV)
10 He replied, “You are talking like a foolish[a] woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?”
In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.
My grandmother, a mighty woman of faith, still despaired in the nursing home, saying, "I don't understand why God doesn't just take me home!" It can be hard even for strongest Christians to accept suffering. It probably explains why God has given us in His word, so much instruction in how to suffer. Still, I can't say I like it. I doubt that our gracious God expects us to like it either, as He carries us through it until that day His glory is revealed.
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