Suffering

Our blog, thus far, has been an update on the going-ons of our home school. Generally, we think of school as something done either K-12, or as formal secondary education. However, as we all know, there are many lessons in life that we as adults get "schooled in". Often, these lessons come in the form of suffering. At times, it is the result of our sin, and we come under the discipline of the Lord (see Hebrews 12:3-17); but yet, we are also told by Christ that it may not be the result of sin, but in order for God to be glorified through His works (see John 9). The Scriptures are replete with statements that in this life, we are going to suffer; if the Master suffered, then surely the students will, too (John 15:20). Whatever the purpose, or cause, we are told that all things work for the good of those who are called unto salvation by the Lord (Romans 8:28). What are we to make of this? How is it that our suffering is for our good?
We have recently dealt with pain resulting from slander. I am finding it very difficult to want to show love and forgiveness towards this person, as I feel as if I have been betrayed. However, in the midst of my anger and bitterness, I read a sermon dealing with Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Christ. Even though Judas was about to betray Jesus, our Lord nonetheless washed his feet. Through this, I am learning to pray as Jesus did, "Father, forgive [him], for [he] knows not what he does." Perhaps I need to learn, or be reminded, of the great debt that God has forgiven me...