The Favor No One Wants(but everybody needs)

Setting the stage…-surrounded by priviledge-distant from true suffering-creatures of comfort

Philippians 1:29

“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ

not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for

him.”

Charizomai

• The Greek word translated as “granted” in Php 1:29 means… to give freely as a favor.

• It is also the word most often translated as grace.

• The etymology of the English word charity.

We give because we see a need and are moved by compassion to help

meet it.

Why do we give to charity?

What good is suffering?

• Efficient teacher.• Creates empathy (the ability to feel

others sorrow or pain).• Removes apathy (the lack of compassion)• It inspires others.• It helps us grow and get to heaven.

We can not afford to say no thanks to God ordained suffering.

No thanks!

SufferingIf we are not challenged we won’t be changed.

The Fruit of Suffering

#1-Character -Romans 5:2-5#2-Hope -Ephesians 1:18-19#3-Faith -1 Peter 1:6-9

Suffering tests faith…(fear of it reveals an absence of it).

Proven faith pleases God! (He. 11:6)

1 Peter 4:12-13

12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.

Moses’ story

Suffering is a Favor• Needed for maturity• Trainer of our faith• Revealer of our trust

Can God Do You a Favor?