November 11, 2012 – Job 36

God saves the afflicted through their affliction.  This whole idea of suffering being a good thing is so far beyond the normal worldly notion that it is almost seen as barbaric.  I have written about this before, but for almost anyone, whether they want to admit it or not, has experienced the knowledge and growth you receive by going through a tough situation.  The secular world will tell us that any suffering is bad, but they also coin phrases like “no pain, no gain” and “if it doesn’t kill you it makes you stronger”.  The secular world understands that we would not be a free country without a Revolutionary War. 

Yet the educate us that suffering is harmful and should be avoided at all cost.  I have an urge to have sex before I am married.  The world says that you shouldn’t suffer that but indulge it.  Homosexual tendencies, use of marijuana, envy of your neighbor, you shouldn’t have to put up with those pangs, indulge them, you deserve to fulfill your every pleasure.  Suffering through these temptations is not growth, it is damaging.  I would say that indulging is the damaging part.