That Questionable Suffering

We delude ourselves when we try to turn our just punishments into a cross and rejoice over that for which we should rather repent. 'For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently'

But if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God? (1 Peter 2:20). The cross is always in the way of righteousness. We feel the pain of the cross only when we suffer for Christ's sake by our own willing choice.

I think that there is also another kind of suffering, one that does not fall into either of the categories considered above. It comes neither from the rod nor from the cross, not being imposed as a moral corrective nor suffered as a result of our Christian life and testimony. It comes in the course of nature and arises from the many ills flesh is heir to. It visits all alike in a greater or lesser degree and would appear to have no clear spiritual significance.Its source may be fire, flood, bereavement, injuries, accidents, illness, old age, weariness or the upset conditions of the world generally.

What are we to do about this? Well, some great souls have managed to turn even these neutral afflictions to good. By prayer and self-abasement they wooed adversity to become their friend and made rough distress a teacher to instruct them in the heavenly arts. May we not emulate them?

 

 

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Events
  • 01
    Jan
    New Year Service 2026

    The New Year Service calls believers to begin 2026 with worship, thanksgiving, and renewed dedication before God. WOA churches worldwide gather to seek His direction for the year ahead, committing their lives, families, and ministries to His will. As congregations reflect on the Lord’s steadfast faithfulness, they enter the new year with hope, prayer, and a resolve to walk in obedience to His purpose.

  • 25
    Dec
    Christmas Day

    Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior who brought light into the world. WOA churches around the globe gather in worship and gratitude, reflecting on the miracle of the Incarnation and the hope of salvation fulfilled in Him. As believers rejoice in the love of God revealed through His Son, they renew their faith and devotion to share the good news with all nations.

  • 23
    Dec
    Christmas Retreats

    WOA churches worldwide hold Christmas Retreats that lead believers into deeper reflection on the person and saving work of Jesus Christ. Through Scripture meditation, worship, and prayer, congregations contemplate the wonder of the Incarnation and the redemption accomplished through His sacrificial love. Remembering the humility of Christ’s birth and the grace revealed in His atoning work, participants are guided to renewed faith, gratitude, and devotion to the Lord.

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World Olivet Assembly believes in equipping believers with theological and practical resources that would enable them to advance the work the gospel.

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About world olivet

World Olivet Assembly (WOA) is a global gathering of evangelical churches and para-church organizations existing for the advancement of world mission.

resources

World Olivet Assembly believes in equipping believers with theological and practical resources that would enable them to advance the work the gospel.

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