Daily Bible Plan - Day 25

6 March 2025

This bible plan was created by Nicky and Pippa Gumbal.

Prayer of the Day

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your sovereign hand over our lives. Even in suffering, You are working for our good. Help us to trust You in every season, knowing that You can turn even the darkest moments into testimonies of Your faithfulness. Teach us to see with eyes of faith and to rest in the assurance that You are always in control. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God Intended It For Good: The Purpose of Suffering

Suffering is one of the greatest challenges to our faith. Why does God allow pain, loss, and hardship? Theologians and philosophers have wrestled with this question for centuries. While there is no simple answer, Scripture reveals that God can use suffering for His greater purpose. He does not cause suffering, but He can bring good out of it.

Scriptural Foundations for God’s Purpose in Suffering

1. God Uses Suffering to Transform You

Read: Psalm 15:1–5

Difficult times can shake us, but David reminds us that those who live according to God’s ways “will never be shaken” (v.5). As suffering shapes our character, we develop resilience and faith.

Key Message:

David lists qualities that help us stand firm in trials:

• Walk blamelessly and do what is right (v.2).

• Speak truthfully (v.2b).

• Avoid gossip and slander (v.3).

• Love your neighbor (v.3).

• Keep your promises even when it’s hard (v.4b).

• Be generous and honest (v.5).

Fulfillment in Christ:

Romans 5:3–5 teaches that suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope. Jesus, through His own suffering, demonstrated the power of endurance and faith.

Application:

When trials come, we should not be discouraged. Instead, we should trust that God is refining us and making us more like Christ.

2. God Used Suffering to Save You

Read: Matthew 17:14–18:9

Jesus came to deal with suffering, not only in healing the sick but ultimately through His death and resurrection.

Key Message:

• Jesus’ suffering on the cross was meant for evil, but God used it for the greatest good—the salvation of humanity (Matthew 17:22–23).

• The healing of the epileptic boy (Matthew 17:18) points to a future where there will be no more pain or suffering.

• The death and resurrection of Jesus guarantee eternal hope for all who believe in Him.

Fulfillment in Christ:

What others meant for evil, God used for good. Jesus’ suffering led to the redemption of the world. His resurrection is proof that suffering will not have the final say.

Application:

• Have faith that God is in control, even in suffering (Matthew 17:20).

• Be mindful of how your actions impact others (Matthew 17:27).

• Humbly trust God, like a child depends on a parent (Matthew 18:4).

• Remove sin and anything that hinders your walk with Christ (Matthew 18:7–9).

3. God Uses Suffering for His Greater Purpose

Read: Genesis 49:1–50:26

Joseph’s story is one of betrayal, hardship, and redemption. His brothers meant to harm him, but God used it to save many lives.

Key Message:

• Joseph suffered betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment, but God turned it all for good (Genesis 50:20).

• What others intend for harm, God can use to fulfill His plan.

• Joseph forgave his brothers, showing God’s heart of redemption.

Fulfillment in Christ:

Joseph’s story foreshadows Jesus—the ultimate example of suffering turned to salvation. Jesus was rejected, crucified, and buried, yet His suffering brought eternal life to all who believe.

Application:

• Trust that God is using your pain for a greater purpose.

• Forgive those who have wronged you, as Joseph forgave his brothers.

• Believe that God is working all things for your good (Romans 8:28).

Overall Takeaway

Suffering is never meaningless. God can use it to shape our character, strengthen our faith, and fulfill His greater purposes. As we walk through trials, let us resolve to:

Trust in God’s goodness.

• See suffering as a tool for transformation.

• Believe that God is working all things for our good.

• Forgive and show grace to others.

  
  

Each day, ask yourself: How can I trust God more, even in my trials?

References 

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