Key Words:
“Hope” used six different times.
“Wait” used three different times.
“Groan” used three different times.
Key: There is purpose behind the pain.
The Source of Our Suffering:
1) Our own Situation.
John 16:33
2) Is our Sin.
Romans 5:12
3) Is our Self.
Galatians 6:7
4) Is Satan.
1 Peter 5:8
5) Is our Salvation.
1 Peter 4:12-16 & 19
The Key to coping with Suffering:
Romans 8:18“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (NIV)
Cardiologist: “Hope is the medicine I use more than any other. Hope can cure nearly everything.”
Hanging on to Hope in Suffering:
1) It is only Temporary.
Arab Proverb: “All sunshine and no rain make a desert.”
2) Is Jesus is coming back.
John 14:1-3
3) Heaven is waiting.
Revelation 21:1-4
4) The Holy Spirit prays for us in our sufferings.
Hebrews 4:15-16
5) God has a purpose in our sufferings.
Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (NIV)
