Ou-Testamentiese perspektiewe op lyding

Abstract

In this article attention is directed to perspectives on suffering in the Old Testament and briefly to the implications for the praxis of ministry to those who suffer. The following issues are discussed: the relation between suffe­ring and sin; suffering in the relation to God, the neighbour, oneself and the earth. The Word of God, prayer and the communion of the saints play an important role in this ministry and the implied self-ministry of the sufferer. Attention is directed to aspects like the following: the relevance of Psalms in the Old Testament especially the laments in the Psalms - and in contemporary worship; sin, God's sovereignty and the mystery of his action; the place of enemies; cause- and goal-directed suffering; self­ encouragement; communion and the inclination to serve.