God’s Purpose in Our Pain

Show Summary

Suffering is one of the hardest realities of life in a fallen world. Yet for the Christian, our pain is never pointless. In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins walks through key Scriptures to show how God uses suffering to humble us, refine our faith, bear witness to the world, and point us to eternal glory in Christ.

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Episode Notes

1. Suffering Reminds Us of Our Need for God

Trials strip away self-reliance and drive us to depend on the Lord.

2 Corinthians 12:9–10 — God’s power is made perfect in weakness.

Suffering humbles us and reminds us that God is in control, not us.

2. Suffering Refines Our Faith

James 1:2–4 — “Count it all joy… for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.”

Trials act like a refiner’s fire, purifying our character and growing endurance.

Romans 5:3–5 — Suffering produces endurance, character, and hope.

3. Suffering Witnesses to the World

When believers endure suffering with hope, the watching world takes notice.

1 Peter 3:15 — Always be prepared to give a reason for the hope that is in you.

The early church grew through persecution, showing that Christ is worth more than comfort.

4. Suffering Points Us to Eternal Glory

2 Corinthians 4:16–18 — “This light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.”

Earthly suffering is temporary, but eternal life with Christ is forever.

Suffering loosens our grip on this world and lifts our eyes to heaven.

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