The Purpose of Suffering in the Christian Life.

Suffering is an inevitable part of the human experience, and for Christians, it poses profound questions about faith, purpose, and the nature of God. The Bible does not shy away from this topic; rather, it provides reassurance that suffering is not without meaning. As the poster reminds us, “Sometimes God calms the storm. Sometimes He lets the storm rage and calms His child.” This sentiment encapsulates the Christian understanding of suffering, offering hope and insight into its benefits.

One of the primary benefits of suffering is the comfort that it brings. In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul writes, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction.” When we endure trials, we learn to seek solace in God, and in turn, we become instruments of comfort for others. Our experiences enable us to empathize with those who are suffering, allowing us to share God’s love and grace in tangible ways.

Grace is another powerful return on suffering. It reminds us of our dependence on God and His unending mercy. God’s grace is especially evident in our weakest moments, as expressed in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where Paul states, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” The realization that God’s strength shines brightest in our vulnerabilities helps us embrace our struggles rather than shy away from them.

As Christians, we know the God of all comfort and hope. Perhaps there’s a time that you could set aside to listen to this video and ask God to bring you comfort and your time of sorrow

Moreover, suffering cultivates resilience. When faced with adversity, we have the opportunity to grow stronger in our faith. Romans 5:3-5 tells us, “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” Each trial can lead to a deeper faith and a more profound understanding of God’s promises, enabling us to face future challenges with greater confidence.

As Christians, our suffering also serves as a powerful testimony. First Peter 2:21 reminds us, “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.” Our stories of endurance and faith amidst suffering can inspire others and draw them to Christ, who offers hope and redemption.

Suffering is not random; it has purpose. God uses our pain to teach us valuable lessons. James 1:2-4 encourages us to “count it all joy when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” Each challenge is an opportunity for growth, shaping our character and drawing us closer to our Creator.

Humility is another essential lesson learned through suffering. In our trials, we often recognize our limitations and need for God’s help. This humility aligns us with Christ, who experienced immense suffering yet remained obedient to the Father’s will. Philippians 2:8 states, “And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”

In conclusion, suffering is an integral aspect of the Christian faith, filled with opportunities for growth and deeper connection to God. Rather than viewing trials as mere burdens, Christians can embrace them as avenues for grace, comfort, and testimony. In our moments of suffering, we find that we are not alone; we are held by a God who understands our pain and walks with us through the storm, ultimately leading us to a place of peace and purpose.

I’m reminded of a video just recently posted on YouTube that depicts the concept of community. In times of suffering, we need to encourage one another. This YouTube video depicts the Amish moving a barn. They used human strength alone, not machinery. It took over 300 to pick up and move the barn. Check it out here.

Follow The Plans.

We all know about the plans that are drawn up for everything that we purchase. It could be the plans that tell you how to operate the device or it could be the plans that tell you how to put it together. There are plans for every step along the way.

Recently, I have taken on a few projects working with wood. I don’t think I’m a carpenter, but I have found plans that are easy to follow. Sometimes I make mistakes, but thankfully, I am able to complete the project. I worry when I end up with extra parts at the end of the task. I just hope that they intended to leave me extra screws.

Some of the wood projects that I am doing, I have worked with my grandkids. We built birdhouses and planter boxes. Some of these were drawn up from plants I found on the Internet and thankfully, I am able to follow along on YouTube.

I’m not highly creative, but as long as there are step-by-step instructions, I can usually find success. Plans are simple, but they could also be very complex. Thankfully, I’m not building a cathedral.

The most challenging project is my most recent endeavor. I’m making an effort to build a coffee table using plans that are far more sophisticated than my skill level. I’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way. Each mistake is a lesson learned.

I’m at the point where I think it’s beginning to actually look like, what the plans are designed for. The Coffee Table is coming together. 

Recently, I took some other basic plans and created a birdhouse with attached feeder and installed it outside my uncle Eddie‘s retirement community window. Thought I might bring him a bit of encouragement to have a few birds fly into his backyard. He can see it from his bed so he doesn’t have to go outside. (My grandkids helped me build this little birdhouse.)

This reminds me that even the plans God has for us could be encouraging to somebody else. We could be the light that others need if we use what skills we have for others. 

The Bible tells us that God has plans for our lives. He is the designer and creator of my life. He is considered the master carpenter.

As I read through the scriptures and apply Truths in my life, it does provide me a direction and a plan for how to live this life and the next. There are values and principles that can guide me. God does know me best and has a plan for my life. (Jeremiah 29:11) 

God’s plans are for his glory! What I do is to represent Christ and all of my endeavors. Certainly, I didn’t create the wood, but God helped me put it in a project that could be useful. 

Like a set of step-by-step instructions, God‘s plans are established to bring us salvation as well as how to live. They are both righteous and moral for my life if I apply those truths in my life.

Each of our lives have purpose. God knows our future and he knows our challenges. He walks with us each day. Turn to Him for hope. Look to Him for help. Listen to Him for direction. Grow and your understanding of Him.

Why I Watch Political National Conventions.

This is a narrative of my experiences over the years. I am a glutton for punishment. I have been a fierce defender of our Democratic Republic. I do believe in the constitution. I have read many books on the history of this country, which I love and serve.

Some people have strange addictions. Mine is watching political debates. Is it because I like conflict? Not really. I do like debates that produce better outcomes! 

Over the last several years, I make every effort to watch the political campaign and see if I can make sense of the Party positions in order to have an informed decision. I base my understanding on the values that I hold near to me.

A lot of people just like to grab their political signs and flags and a rebellious manner. I would prefer to listen and learn as best I can where people are coming from. I am trying to listen more and speak less. By the way, this is a particularly difficult discipline for me.

This year in particular, I have listened to both the Republican National Convention and the Democrat National Convention. Of course, I have seen lies on both sides. You might call them perspectives, but they are subtle yet can skew from truth in many ways.

My effort today is to tell you why I would be such a glutton for political conversations.

I do not plan to tell you how I will vote in November, but I will give you a couple of bullet points for why I remain curious. I remain a skeptic in the political climate of today. 

I think that we have never been divided in my lifetime than we are at this present moment. It is also clearly obvious that the sharp lines of division have never been more clear than they are right now. It seems as though the parties shout with ever increasing intensity about a position that seems so divided.

Ultimately, I believe in the hope of Jesus Christ. We will never solve our political divide through government, interventions of all types or even programs. Even those with the best intentions will fall short because we all have sinned and have fallen short.

By the way, the fact that I use the word sin in this article means that I may be labeled as radical. I do believe that no one is perfect and no candidate will save us from ourselves.

Why would I do this to myself?

1. I want to be known as someone who has clarity in my decision-making.

I prefer to remain independently objective and base my decisions based on facts, not fiction. I am a dreamer, but also a realist! I have a need to know how the party aligns with my values! 

Making decisions means being informed. Making decisions that better others is why I am listening and reading about policies and positions that are available to inform me. 

2. I want to be somebody who is known for listening more than talking.

Although it takes a bit of discipline for me, I am trying to learn to listen more than speak. It’s hard but necessary. I am learning to ask good questions. 

I don’t like everything about every party, but hopefully I am learning and growing as a human being. Hopefully my beliefs in the Bible and my faith are helping me to become a better leader. I have to discover what aligns with my values and beliefs. 

3. I want to be somebody who is not stubborn but remains open minded.

I do think that I double down on positions that I believe to be at the core of my values. However, I am trying to remain open minded enough to find a common place for me to learn. I know that I could be stubborn, but hopefully I could be someone that is learning at the same time. 

I offer respect to everyone and make every effort to find common ground to have a civil discussion. I believe that we can have a good decision if we support liberty. 

4. I want to be somebody who operates out of principles and a set of values more than simply emotional. 

I do think that people who are different than one another can find common value even if we do not agree. yet, all of us has a desire to resolve conflict when possible. Values that we hold may be what is the key to solving real problems in neighborhoods and communities where we live. 

Local politics are far more fun for me because you get to know the various people that are involved in the decisions that affect you. 

National politics does not do this anymore for any one of us. Somehow, we think that we have elected representatives who speak on our behalf, unfortunately, too often people enter into politics as a career and spend their entire career defending their right to stay on the government payroll. 

I am grateful that we live in a country that has a Constitution that is worth defending. The values it promotes began with God not man! 

I am grateful to live in a country that affords us the opportunity of an opinion in the chance to be a productive citizen. I am thankful that we have rights that are given to us, not by government or political persuasion, but by God! 

We know that if the government can give you something, than they can also take it away! These right of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness is foundational. 

However, I also believe, this country has a foundation in which every other country in the world remains envious.

No matter our difference, we can have a civil discussion. We can find a better way! We can solve the issues of the day. 

Let’s chat! 

Legacy is…

Today I want to focus on legacy. It is a term that depicts generational impact we can have on others. A parent to a child is one way; through a family legacy. A mentor and mentee; personal interactions and as an apprentice. There are many type of relationships that can influence someone in a positive way. 

I love the saying, “You impress people from a distance but you impact them close.” We are encouraged to make a difference in someone! 

Legacy is important! We all have it! Some good and for others bad. A legacy is what someone gives. It may be generational (as in a blessing or a curse). 

The word legacy depicts a heritage given. We think of it as always good but in actuality it can be negative. 

Today, we need to look at what is positive. A good heritage!  The Bible says that a good name is better than gold. (Proverbs 22:1) With a good heritage we can make a positive impact in the lives of people we may never meet.

By definition, legacy refers to a lasting impact and the way they will be remembered for generations to come. 

Legacy can be career accomplishments, financial assets, or a loved one's incredible character. 

How you define legacy will determine how you spend your life. When people give of themselves in the lives of others, that is legacy. When we help another we are developing legacy. 

Leave a legacy! Do something that will outlast your lifetime! 

Abraham planted a tamarisk tree. In Genesis 21:33 we read that next to the altar, Abraham planted a tree of which he would never enjoy the shade of. In the dessert he planted a tree that takes 400 years to fully grow and cast a shadow for weary travelers.

Lead From Behind and Other Notions!

Leadership is so important! Like a good parent, lead by developing your team. 

I have heard that we should lead from behind. In fact, there is a book with this title: Leaders Eat Last. Lead with humility is not just an idea. Let me share a few ideas.

Honest humility is a great beginning.

Awesome authenticity is a great way to show up.

Timely arrivals and stand up for your team.

These ideas will shape your potential to lead. Leadership is too often defined as someone who is tallest and best looking. This is a shallow and hollow experience. If you have ever had a terrible boss then you know how not to lead. If you have a better manager than a leader, you know what I mean. If you have ever grown frustrated with your leaders/bosses, you will understand these ideas better than others.

1. Honest humility is not false humility. It is not being shy or meek. It is not our telling others that we are humble. 

It is obvious to people when someone is humble! They don’t brag about it. They don’t show off their goodness.

Leaders who are confident can lead with humility. It is a meekness that is a controlled inner confidence. They know who they are and why they exist! 

Leaders know where they are going but they don’t push others out of the way to get where they are going. Leaders do take others with them. Yet, good leaders lead humbly. They choose humility. If they promote success, they tell what others are doing. 

Honesty is key to their effectiveness. They prepare well. Execute well. Gather what they need. Encourage and empower people. They come to humility naturally. 

Look at 1 & 2 Peter to know more about humility! Peter learned through major changes he experienced in life and through God’s amazing grace he learned humility. 

2. Awesome authenticity is a great way to show up. 

No one likes being in communication with robots. Scripted people are hard to connect with. Everyone resonates with authentic people. They like human conversations! 

When we show up and be ourselves, we gain ground. We grow in relational well-being. 

When people act like human beings, we grow stronger in meaningful relationships. Even more, when leaders share their vulnerabilities we are more likely to follow. Why? We can relate to them. We are human beings. It is not the calendar that leads meaningful relationships. Tasks don’t make us warm and fuzzy. Leaders that demand from us without authenticity will not lead long. 

Take a look at the way Jesus led others. See Matthew 25. Jesus told us to serve people well. 

We can lead from the back of the room when we are authentic. Those upfront are not necessarily leaders. They have titles but they may not connect to the heart of those in the room.

3. Timely arrivals and stand up for your team.

Leaders who use others are not leading. They are thieves. They rob your team of the best ideas and make them their own. 

Leaders show up first! They stand ready to drive the goals. They show their support and do their part. 

Also, leaders stand up for their team. They go to the mat for their team. They own the outcomes and don’t shift blame! Leaders don’t take credit; they choose humility. 

Their success is not for selfish glory. They share the benefits of success. See Philippians 2:5-11.

These three ideas will reshape your humility while leading yourself and others. 

Read more:

Of the different styles of leadership, a leader who leads from behind is behaving as a servant leader. Servant leaders see to the needs of the team, which helps create the conditions that allows individuals to shine, making the best use of themselves and available resources. - Sophia Johnson.

What Is Your TESTimony?

We live in an age of instant feedback. We can make comments about anything online. Look at any social media page of any business and you will see it. Some comments can make or break a business. In fact, comments about the quality of food or service can go viral. Look at how many responded to the negative comments that were leveled against organizations that promoted DEI policies in their advertisement. John Deere and Tractor Supply reversed their Corporation statements when people "spoke up."

The church has similar ramifications. Call it consequential or casual, those that make comments about a particular ministry or church experience can cause significant changes. If someone reports that they had a negative experience or is concerned about the church's teaching can diminish their impact in the community. Also, when Christianity is labeled negatively, the impact, while less subtle, can keep people away from Church attendance. 

We see this in real time. When there is a particular message that deems every church as hateful (toward a certain people group) then the consequences are damaging. Or if a church steps up to help after a significant national crisis or disaster, the church has many fans!

What about your personal witnessing brand?  I call this a brand because your reputation does represent more than just you but also your community, family, neighbors, and even coworkers or school classmates. Your testimony can make a difference. 

Say, for example, you go out to eat (especially on a Sunday) and you show that you are a Christian but you show disrespect for the waitress or complain about your service. You create an impression. Your reputation is not only damaged but also the Church as a whole. Why? Your testimony or "Christian Brand" is impacted too. Or, what if you represent yourself as a Christian on Sunday but on Monday you act like the world?  It damages your ability to speak about Christ. 

A testimony means witness. It is a witness of what God is doing in your life. It needs to be authentic and genuine. It needs to reflect Christ as being filled with honesty and grace. It needs to show what you are promoting by how you act (when no one is watching). 

I am writing this short blog today to also point to other articles and messages I have written on evangelism. Check these articles out. 

I am also wanting to talk about the word that is a part of the word TESTimony. It is the word TEST. 

We all have been through experiences that inform our testimony. Some experiences are mere tests. We are tested as Christians. We all have been through hard times. We all have seen our share of tough things. 

What if your journey was such that you can relate to the journey of others? What if your hardship was such that you can speak into the hardship of others? 

Our struggles mean that we are alive!  Our struggles mean that our journey is not yet complete. 

While we may be Christian yet, our experiences can inform and strengthen our walk with God, in Christ. 

What TEST are you going through right now?  What is your struggle?  What have you found victory in? How can you share your journey of faith?

God may have put that test on you, as a believer so that you can share how God walked with you and strengthen you on the way. 

Join in this discussion by sharing what you have experienced and how God used it for His Glory. Send me your TESTimony to rickecarder@outlook.com

I am certain that there is someone who is about to give up. I am certain that there is someone wondering if God even cares. I am certain that there is someone who is losing hope. 

It is our opportunity to share our story and help others who are yet to discover the walk with Jesus that you are having. 

Why Is Not Just A Question!

I hear this all the time. People complain and cry out, “Why?”

You have done this. Me too. We are a people who love to complain. No matter the age, we find reasons to complain. 

It is part of our nature. Complaining is found in the Bible many times. See Lamentations. It is just one place where you find this attitude. We lament! We complain!

So, what do we do with this? It is human nature to be afraid, troubled, and complain. We hate to read the book of Lamentations but we enjoy living in lamentation.

 

We love to complain about the weather. It is something that we cannot control yet, we find ways to complain about it! We all go through hard times. We all find it hard to say nice things. We know how to justify our complaints.

I have a theory on this subject. It is simple. If we can’t say anything good, don’t say anything. However, we find excuses for our complaints. 

Politics or preferences, we love to complain. We all seem to ask questions of things we don’t understand. Moses’ people complained for over 40 years! As a nation, they were given everything that they needed. Yet, they wanted something else. They were, like many of us, fickle! We too often know what we want but we complain the same as them.

So, what do we do with the many questions of why?

Why is this happening to me?

Why do I have to (fill in the blank)? 

We are never satisfied. We never cease from our striving. But, what if we simply become content? Instead of why, we can ask, why not?

Why not? Yes, we need to ask why not? We should understand that if our attitude is positive, we can have a “can-do” attitude. 

If you are asking why, how much better is it to say why not!

Jesus knows - cares - heals. He has been here right where you are? He did not complain? We can’t say that Jesus never asked why?  He showed us that it is okay to ask why. It is not the end of the world.

God wants to hear from you! Let your complaint lead you to God! Let your hardship force you to come to Christ for help! 

So, why not just ask God and take your complaint to Him instead of everyone else. He, in fact wants to let God help! 

By the way, the cure for complaining is gratitude. No matter how dark it is, find something to thank God for. Thankfulness is the cure for those negative experiences and complaints.