2. Just because You Are suffering, Doesn’t Mean it’s Your Fault

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I’m a very introspective person and often seek to find the root of an issue. When I can’t seem to change the circumstance in my own effort, I am quick to blame myself. If I’m going through a tough circumstance, surely I must have done something wrong, or else why would this be happening to me?

Sometimes we struggle because of something we’ve done wrong, but oftentimes we may suffer through no fault of our own. Struggling as a result of someone or something else is actually a very common occurrence in the Bible.

David had to flee for his life as a result of Saul’s insecurity,

Joseph was sold into slavery and put into prison as a result of his brother’s jealousy and false accusation from Potiphar’s wife.

Jesus died a gruesome death on the cross through no sin of His own (just to name a few).

Struggling is hard enough, but when you add guilt on top of it, it becomes an even heavier weight on you. If you are struggling with something and feeling guilt on top of it, take some time to read through some of the Bible stories of others who suffered innocently and be encouraged.

It’s still important to take ownership of any part you played in your current suffering. You can receive God’s forgiveness, ask Him to help you change and grow, and then continue to trust and rely on Him to get through your struggle.

…If when you do what is right and patiently bear [undeserved] suffering, this finds favor with God. For [as a believer] you have been called for this purpose, since Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you may follow in His footsteps. He committed no sin, nor was deceit ever found in His mouth. – 1 Peter 2:20-22 AMP

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