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Why Does a Loving God Allow Suffering? 

This was part of two sermons by Pastor Smith

God allows suffering:

1. in my life so that through that experience I might grow spiritually.
   James 1: 2-4
   
   
2. to discipline and correct the believer.
   Hebrews 12:5-8
   
   
3. to open opportunities of witnessing for Jesus Christ.
   Philippians 1:12-14
   
   
4. as a means by which to take us home to eternal rest.
   Philippians 1:20-21
   
   
5. to develop the believer's ability to minister to others who are suffering
   2 Corinthians 1:3-7
   
   
6. to remove cause for boasting in self-reliance.
   2 Corinthians 12:7-10
   
   
7. to try, test and purify our faith.
   1 Peter 1:6-7
   
   
8. to give us a greater view of Himself.
   Job 42:5-6
   
   
9. to give us a personal testimony of His work
   Job 42:5-6
   
   
10. to illuminate the value of the body of Christ.
    1 Corinthians 12:25-27
    
    
11. to allow the believer to imitate Christ.
    Romans 8:28-30
    
    
12. to prepare the believer for judgment or reward.
    James 1:12
    
    
13. to motivate us to cry out to God.
    Psalm 34:17-19
    
    
14. to provide true faith to Satan.
    Job 2:3-6
    
    
15. to prepare the believer for greater blessings.
    Job 42:10-17
    

Four Responses of the Christian to Suffering

1. Recognize that God works in ways that are often inexplicable to the observer.
   Romans 11:33
   
   
2. Realize that God places limitations upon His people's suffering.
   Job 2:6
   
   
3. Rejoice in the possible reasons for your suffering.
   James 1:2
   
   
4. Take one day at a time.
   2 Corinthians 1:8-10; 12:9
   Matthew 6:25-34