THE END OF PAIN

• Why does God allow good people to suffer?

• What can we do as a family to minister to people who are in pain?

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Revelation 21:3-4

The world is full of pain, but some people seem to experience more than their share. If you know someone who suffers from chronic pain, you know how hard it can be.

As followers of Jesus, we have two jobs when it comes to pain. First, we have a responsibility to help those who are suffering. In Matthew 25, Jesus said that whatever we do for people who are sick, we’re actually doing for him. What can we as a family do to help to hurt people in our community?

Second, we have a responsibility to tell others about the place where there will be no pain. If you’re serious about helping others who are hurting, sooner or later you will be asked, “Why doesn’t God do something about it?” or “Why does God allow pain to happen?”

People who are in pain—or who have loved ones who are in pain—are looking for hope. The words of the apostle John in Revelation 21:3-4 offer that hope. People who otherwise may not be interested in hearing about heaven may stop to listen if you tell them about God’s promise to wipe out pain forever. 

PRAYER

Dear God, thank you for giving us the hope that one day there will be no pain. Until then, use us to comfort and help people who are suffering. Amen.