Why is Life so Unfair?

Examples of what we might consider to be unfair:

Joni Eareckson Tada - Was just a recent high school graduate when a swimming accident left her a quadriplegic. Paralyzed from the neck down, it takes 7 people 2 hours each day to get her ready.

John the Baptist - Was set apart and lived his life in the desert. Although he was sent from God to pave the way for Christ, he was beheaded.

TWO INVALID ASSUMPTIONS:

A. All suffering comes from God
B. Christians should never suffer

The truth is that many circumstances in life God has nothing to do with. Some circumstances are the result of sin.

We, as Christians, may think that we don't deserve to have heartache in our lives, but no one is exempt from difficulty.

Biblical examples:
Job lost his family and everything he owned
Joseph was hated by his brothers and sold into slavery


REASONS FOR SUFFERING:

I. To reinforce that actions have consequences
What we sow, we must reap.
Proverbs 6:27-28 and Proverbs 6:32-33

II. To reflect the work of God
Genesis 50:20 and John 9

III. To reveal genuine faith
Is your faith in God tried and proven to be real?
I Peter 1:6-7

IV. To remind us of eternity
There is more beyond this life. God is trying to get our attention.
Revelation 21:4

REACTIONS TO SUFFERING:

I can become Disturbed
Psalm 73:3-5

I can become Disillusioned
Psalm 73:13 and Psalm 73:25-26

I can become Devoted

If Jesus was willing to die for us, shouldn't we view suffering in a different light?