'why is there innocent suffering in the world?' The same question as was put by Roman poets in the 1st century as much as by us today. To me the answer lies in denying that the suffering is of innocents - that we are all guilty before God and deserve far more suffering than we are presently getting. Not a popular answer, but one that makes sense to me.

And in the longer perspective of our everlasting life with God, the suffering of this present age is a passing event that we will get over. If we are listening to God and trying to live His way, we'll get it right and get the maximum benefit from it. If I use it as an excuse to indulge myself (and I have) then I've demonstrated that I don't deserve to go to heaven. Which I didn't to begin with... ALL of us only ever get there because of God's grace.

Much as I disagree with CSL's beliefs about the legitimacy of gay relationships, there's wisdom in his observation that if we get ourselves solid friendships then the pressure towards sinful relationships will decrease. Though you have to be careful - I've just weirded out a potential 28 yo friend by trying too hard having met him via the local board wargames club. But try and get out into life and see what you can find; shared interests, volunteering, church activities. Certainly better than staring at the walls and sulking (been there, done that....) And the various online Christian communities can be helpful as well; my favourite is Ship of Fools, with a cafe facility for chatting as well as discussion boards (no I don't post there as Eldad!)



• ( http link ) Ship of Fools
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