Suffering, Humility & Integrity
“God’s work… is accomplished most incisively through suffering” (Athanasiadis, George Grant and the Theology of the Cross, p. 44).
Here’s another quote that I think is SO important in any kind of community, especially a Christian one:
“… a direct connection is seen between suffering and the maintenance of religious integrity” (“Humility”, International Dictionary of the Bible).
I believe this is true. I’ve seen it over and over again: those who suffer are more likely the ones with true spiritual integrity. Those who live a life of denial and escape from suffering, usually couched in the religious language of triumphalism, positivism and prosperity doctrines, often lack that integrity. Living through the suffering, not without it, is the Christian call.
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hey dave. it’s a good thought, but i think that too much suffering will have the opposite effect. it can make you question whether it’s all worth it or not. too much causes resignation. dan.
John 16:33
I totally hear what you’re saying Dan. I think what I’m saying is that I’d rather hang out with someone who was suffering, even if they were resigned to it, than someone who lives in a world of suffering but lives in escape and denial. There’s something more authentic about the former.
Have you ever heard this quote by C.S. Lewis:
“It is doubtful God can use a man greatly, until he has hurt him deeply.”
This truth has encouraged me through many a dark day…
Actually, I think it was Tozer who said that…
You’re right, it was Tozer. Tough but good.