Welcome to Apologetics with Carl Kerby!
Today, we’re talking about the problem of suffering.
Most people may not think much about the PURPOSE of suffering – they’re just glad to get through it! But Scripture teaches that God often allows hardships for a reason, and one reason is to help BUILD OUR CHARACTER!
In fact, Romans 5:3-4 says we should “rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope” (ESV).
You see, we all love mountain-top experiences, but it’s in life’s valleys that God molds us into His likeness.
As Helen Keller once said, “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”
So, the next time God allows a difficulty into your life, remember that it may be the tool He uses to make you into a better person.
How can we help those who suffer? We’ll discuss that another time.
For additional resources, go to www.hopetools.net. Stay bold!
Carl Kerby is the founder of Reasons for Hope and co-creator of the DeBunked apologetic video series. His radio feature, Fast Facts, is heard weekly on VCY America, Saturdays at 9:25 AM Central.
