The Difference




Why do bad things happen to good people?
Why is there so much suffering in the world?
Why is depression and suicide so pervasive?

The disciples asked Jesus this question, in John's gospel, as they passed by a man, blind from birth. His answer was this:

"So that the works of God  might be displayed in him" (9:3)

If the power, love, healing and strength of God is as true as we say it is, then show it.

How can we show it without having something to overcome? Whatever suffering is ours to carry, it is there to show the world, or even just one person, the difference Jesus makes. If we handle it the same way the world does, in depression, substance abuse or any other kind of flesh feeding, we are wasting the pain and defeating the purpose. Our suffering is to display the power of God...the difference He makes. Second Timothy chapter 3 says that people, in the last days, will look the part, but there will be no difference in their lives to display the power of God:

"...holding to a form of godliness, but denying the power..." (3:5)

Everyone suffers. No one, Christian or otherwise, is exempt from pain. The difference should be the power of God to overcome that pain. If you are healed...to give Him the glory. If you are not healed....that his grace is sufficient for you...you have joy regardless. His presence in our lives should be enough to continue in His ways, even in suffering, with strength, joy and hope.  

Am I displaying the power of God in my suffering?
Do others see the difference God makes in pain?

Or am I just like everyone else...coping...settlement for momentary pleasures...using things of the world instead of the Almighty life giver?

The blind man answered the questions of the unbelieving synagogue leaders with this:

"If this man were not from God, he could do nothing"  (9:33)

So, they kicked him out.

It's not the answer people want to hear, but when you have been blind, and now you see, it's the only answer you can give. The difference is the evidence of the truth of God. You can reject it if you want...but the healed and the waiting will go skipping on their way...convinced and in joy...displaying the power of God.

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