INTRODUCTION

1. God always has a higher purpose

2. He has His reasons for us to undergo tribulations

3. The Challenge is to understand and continue to remain strong and steadfast

 

SPECIAL REASONS FOR OUR AFFLICTION

1. Two reasons highlighted

a) For your consolation 2 Corinthians 1:6

b) For your salvation 2 Corinthians 1:6

2. Consolation

a) Personal

i) There are personal lessons to learn

ii) Personal faith is made stronger

iii) We become wiser

iv) We are more certain about the reality of God

b) Brethren

i) We are able to comfort others

ii) We can uplift hearts better

iii) We become a blessing to others

iv) We are able to share more specifically about our faith in God

3. Salvation

a) It can lead people to salvation

b) It can lead to deliverance from nasty problems

c) It can help others in very practical ways

 

ANOTHER SPECIAL REASON

1. Effective for endurance

a) The word “effective”

i) It is not theoretical

ii) There is empowering experienced

iii) There is practical ability to cope

b) Endurance

i) We are able to bear tribulation

ii) We find courage and strength

iii) We are not afraid of suffering tribulation

2. Context of suffering

a) Many are disheartened

b) Some are in danger of losing hope

c) Many lose out in dynamism of faith

 

OUR CHALLENGE

1. To remember the Three Reasons why Tribulation is allowed for

a) Consolation

b) Salvation

c) Endurance

1. To find the following to help us cope

a) A deeper faith

b) Greater knowledge

c) A stronger hope