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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  • 08
    Jun
    Pentecost Sunday 2025: Empowered for Mission

    On June 8, 2025, World Olivet Assembly churches will celebrate Pentecost Sunday, seeking a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Through worship, prayer, and reflection on Acts 2, believers will renew their commitment to the Great Commission, empowered to spread the gospel with boldness and faith.

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    Apr
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    World Olivet Assembly churches worldwide will gather for Easter Retreats 2025, a time of deep reflection, renewal, and celebration of Christ's resurrection. From April 18-20, 2025, believers will engage in powerful worship, in-depth Bible studies, and fervent prayer, meditating on the victory of the cross and the hope of resurrection.

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    Apr
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    Experience spiritual renewal at WOA's Missionary Respite Program in Dover, NY. Surrounded by serene natural beauty, missionaries find rest, fellowship, and guidance from seasoned ministers. This peaceful retreat offers a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with God's calling before returning to the mission field.

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

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