Message from Romans 8:17.
1. God teaches us to expect gain through pain.
This is life in a fallen world and the path into the kingdom. (Romans 8:17; Genesis 3:16-19; John 16:20-22; Acts 14:19-22)
Have you ever thought about James 5? (James 5:13)
Why must the suffering person pray?
• Because suffering is a great test of faith and a place of temptation. (1 Peter 1:7; Matthew 26:41)
• Because it is in suffering that our unbelief comes to the surface and we need help to believe. (Mark 9:17-24)
What do we need help to believe?
2. Believe you are a child of God though in pain.
Pain and suffering can tempt us to doubt that we are children of God. (Matthew 27:41-43)
But the truth is: Romans 8:17; 8:1; 1 Peter 5:10
3. Believe the pain is gain.
Pain and suffering can tempt us to believe that we are losing instead of gaining – that our lives are being wasted. (Matthew 27:39)
But the truth is: Romans 8:17; Isaiah 53:10-11; James 1:2
4. Believe the gain is far greater than the pain.
Pain and suffering can tempt us to believe that nothing could be worth going through certain “things.” (Job 3:1-3)
But the truth is: Romans 8:17-18
Remember: Expect broken carriages on the way to pick up your inheritance!
When you spoke on Sunday about what will be gained by those who suffer greatly here on earth, I was deeply moved. I was struck by the fact that the reward of joy in heaven will so greatly outweigh the suffering here, that there is really no comparison. So, that made me think about some of the people I know and pray for who are dealing with some overwhelming struggles, and I thought, no matter how bad it gets for them, they will look back in heaven and be able to say "it was momentary, and light" and the glorious joy was more than worth it! What a wonderful promise we can look forward to! I am so ready for heaven. Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly.
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