We are going to begin our spiritual journey by learning there is a “Purpose for Pain.” We all experience pain and suffering at different times in life. Pain and suffering can feel random and purposeless. It is highly discouraging and at times frightening. Even when it dissipates, we think about when it will suddenly return. Or, will it return in some other form?
We will study our ambassadorship through Paul’s 2nd letter to the Corinthians. Paul had suffered physical pain throughout his ministry. His most painful suffering was emotional and spiritual. He had planted the church in Corinth but his spiritual children rejected him. Not only did they reject him, in some cases, but they also mocked and ridiculed him. He writes to them with a broken heart. Despite their treatment of Paul, he writes to them with a heart full of love for them. We will see in the opening of his letter that he realizes there is a “purpose for pain and suffering.” He realizes that God is working for Paul, in him and through him for the benefit of the Corinthian church.