• God allows us the freedom of choice.
    • Genesis 2:16-17 - The sin of Adam and Eve.
    • Joshua 24:14-15 - Joshua reminds the Israelites of the choice they have to serve God or not.
    • Luke 23:39-41 - The criminals crucified with Jesus.
    • I Peter 4:14-16 - Sometimes you suffer as a Christian because of what others choose to do.
  • The world is a temporary stop on the way to eternity.
    • Romans 8:17-18 - Temporary suffering cannot be compared to the glory to come.
    • II Corinthians 11:23-28 - The suffering of Paul
  • If our attitude is right, we benefit from suffering.
    • James 1:2-3
    • I Peter 1:6-9
    • Psalm 119:65-72
    • II Corinthians 12:10
    • II Corinthians 1:8-10
  • Jesus suffered
    • I Peter 2:21-23