It’s approaching 10 years since our son Jacob died. “Feels like a lifetime ago and only yesterday” Stacey commented the other day.

Hardship and suffering comes to all. There are no exemptions. Trouble leaves our broken world with questions like, why? What is the point of all this pain?

Apart from faith those questions are much more confounding than we who are in the faith.

I can’t answer those questions completely but I can in part.

Writing from prison and shackled to a Roman guard suffering greatly for Christ, Paul answers in part the “Why God” and “What’s the point?” questions

The why question? Suffering advances the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. Philippians 1:12

The what’s the point question? Our trials aren’t completely about us. They are for others.

“I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith.” Philippians 1:23-25

The death of Jacob has brought about opportunity for us. Opportunity to share Jesus. In the sharing and years of writing I am in hope of spiritual birth, growth, progress and joy for others.

Suffering involves me but it’s not about me. Just like the suffering of Jesus was not about himself but about an entire suffering world.

Knowing this I can answer the why God? What’s the point? questions.

Joy in suffering is possible when these questions are answered biblically. Jesus has turned our sorrow into joy by his life. Praise God!

Grace and peace, Mike