TBC Notes

The Value of Suffering ATGW

In 2010 I wrote a TBC article titled “The Value of Suffering.” It’s not exactly a subject that thrills our flesh, but it is a very important teaching for our spirit. Recently, as I was reading through the Psalms, I found two verses that I wasn’t aware of when I penned the article eleven years ago. They underscore the value of suffering according to God’s Word (ATGW).

“It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.” “I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.” (Psalm:119:71It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.
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What is the lesson here given from the Holy Spirit? God allows affliction to take place in the life of believers in order to draw us closer to Him. Job’s life is a prime example (Job:42:5-6 [5] I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. [6] Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.
See All...). So, the question is, “How are we dealing with what Jesus has allowed to take place in our lives?” Is it causing us to learn more about Him and His Word and His ways? When Jesus chooses to correct us because of our sins (which He paid for in full), do we recognize His “faithfulness” in doing so? If we don’t see that our affliction is related to His faithfulness and His love for us, and an opportunity to learn “Thy statutes” and “Thy judgments,” we miss the “good” that is featured in the value of suffering.

T. A. McMahon

Executive Director