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We started a new podcast series a couple of weeks ago called, “Fostering Joy in 2021.” (You can listen to or watch the first episode, “The Role of Gratitude,” here.) In this episode, we’re focusing on finding joy in suffering. We’ll dispel some myths and dive into biblical examples of the purpose of suffering. We’ll also talk about some practical tips for cultivating joy in your own suffering as well as times when your kids suffer.
But first, a confession from Amy about a “lie” she told in the last podcast (which you can listen to here)
Dispelling a myth: It’s unwise to automatically conclude that every suffering is a direct result of the sufferer’s sin.
Character is a muscle that needs to be developed. Click To Tweet- The purpose of suffering
- Suffering develops perseverance and maturity.
- Sometimes suffering is bringing about a good that we can’t see right now.
- Suffering can provide natural consequences.
- Why it’s important to have joy in suffering: what the Bible says.
- It’s an important part of communicating a healthy biblical worldview.
- Suffering reveals what truly brings us joy.
- How do we cultivate this in real life?
- Praise God first.
- Teach healthy grieving tactics.
- Look back at what the Lord has done.
- Remember that this (Earth) is not our home.
Resources Mentioned:
Why Does God Allow Evil? Compelling Answers For Life’s Toughest Questions by Clay Jones
Your Best Life Now by Joel Osteen [We don’t recommend this resource…Your best life isn’t now. Keep a heavenly perspective for the city that is to come!]
Quotable Quotes:
“Character is a muscle that needs to be developed.” – Hillary Morgan Ferrer
“Whenever God gives us a promise, it usually has a lot of benefits, but there’s a lot of responsibility that comes with those benefits. You have to be able to shoulder that burden.” – Hillary Morgan Ferrer
“If we don’t teach our kids how to seek the Lord and his community of believers in times of trial, then they’ll go other places to find that comfort.” – Amy Davison
“You might discover that you’ve been settling for comfort when you could have been having joy.” – Amy Davison
“This too shall pass. It might pass like a kidney stone, but it will pass.” – Hillary Morgan Ferrer
This too shall pass. It may pass like a kidney stone, but it will pass. Click To TweetDo you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future episodes? Send us an email at askthemamabears@gmail.com.
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Looking for detailed podcast notes, which include time-stamps, definitions, full Bible verses, and more? We provide them to Patrons on Patreon who donate $10 or more per month. If you’re interested in learning more about Patreon and our giving levels, please visit patreon.com/MamaBearApologetics.
Hillary Morgan Ferrer is the founder of Mama Bear Apologetics. She is the chief author and editor of Mama Bear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies and Mama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality: Empowering Your Kids to Understand and Live Out God’s Design. Hillary has her masters in Biology and has been married to her husband, Dr. John D. Ferrer, for 15 years. Don’t let her cook for you. She’ll burn your house straight to the ground.
