For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.
–Romans 8:20-21
What has happened to this world? God created a perfect paradise and man was placed to rule over it all. Now the earth is cursed with plagues, pollution, greed, destruction, and more.
Again, what happened? Sin. The world was cursed and plunged into corruption by sin and rebellion. When Adam and Eve disobeyed God in rebellion, they placed all of creation into “the bondage of corruption.” And now man lives in fear, failure, and frustration.
But did you know that pain can actually be a good thing? How can pain and suffering be good? It’s a warning signal to tell us that something is wrong.
How do you know to pull your hand out of the fire unless you feel the searing pain of the heat?
All the groaning, crying, and moaning of this age is God’s effort to get our attention. Yes, He cares about you and me. And, yes, He is all-powerful. God has a plan beyond our human understanding. And as Paul wrote, He is preparing His family for a future glory that cannot even be compared to the sufferings and hurt of today.
How do you overcome despite the suffering? Look with expectation for what God has prepared for those who belong to Jesus Christ.
HOW DO YOU KNOW TO PULL YOUR HAND OUT OF THE FIRE UNLESS YOU FEEL THE SEARING PAIN OF THE HEAT?
