This is part 2 of "Make It Make Sense," our series at Fusion Christian Church where we ask difficult questions and look for biblical answers. In week 2 of the series, Pastor Zac teaches how to deal with suffering in our lives.

Suffering follows evil.

Suffering is a consequence of the fall of creation as described in Genesis 3. Because humans sinned, we all experience the consequences of that sin through suffering and pain. While some choose to blame God, each of us has committed more than enough sin to deserve our own pain. Though choosing to blame God is tempting, there are some things we should remember about the God we would accuse.

Jesus entered our suffering on the cross.

The God who some choose to accuse of evil is the very God who entered into creation to suffer an excruciating death on our behalf. We do not have a God who is distant or uncaring, but a God who experienced human suffering in full. Therefore God is able to understand our weaknesses and sympathize with us. Not only this, but God can strengthen us in our time of need. Remember that God is able to take what was meant for evil and turn it for good. In light of this, how should we respond when we face suffering?

Worship God - in suffering and in joy.

When we experience intense suffering, the last thing we may want to do is praise God, but it helps. As shocking as it may be, choosing to praise God through the trials instills hope when we would otherwise despair. To help in times of trouble, train yourself to praise him in the hills so you are ready to praise in the valleys.

Let suffering open your heart and eyes to see God more clearly.

Paradoxically, God's goodness is revealed most clearly in our suffering. If we choose to praise him through it, we can feel his comfort and learn to know him more closely.

Don't let suffering crush you - let God use it to make you stronger.

Suffering can easily cause us to turn bitter. That temptation is strong. Choose, however, to let God strengthen you through the experience instead. Trust God to lead you through it and you will end up stronger in faith because of it.

Remember: suffering in this world is temporary for the Christian.

This world is not all there is, but rather the Christian has hope for the next one. There will come a day when God will wipe away every tear and set all things right. God is loving and just, and he will both establish justice and save his people.

Use your experience to comfort others.

When we experience trials, we should remember them so that we might comfort others in the same situation. Our trials are not ours alone, but they equip us to help others when they face similar circumstances. Whatever the pain you face, trust in God to deliver you through it.