Pain and suffering are universal experiences that often leave people asking, “Why does God allow pain and suffering?”
It’s a good question that has perplexed many people for centuries and is central to many discussions about faith, justice, and the nature of God. While the answer may not be simple (or what you might want to hear), exploring this question can offer valuable insights into God’s purpose, our choices in life, and the hope offered in the Christian faith.
Understanding the Question "Why does God allow pain and suffering?"
The presence of pain and suffering in the world can be a stumbling block for many who are exploring or questioning their faith. If God is all-powerful and all-loving, why doesn’t He prevent suffering? The Bible addresses this question in various ways, pointing to themes of our choices in life, the consequences of sin (breaking God's laws), and God’s overarching plan for redemption.
Our choices and the Consequences
God created humanity with the ability to make choices. These choices however open the door to sin and its consequences. When Adam and Eve chose to disobey God in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), sin entered the world, bringing with it pain, suffering, and death.
Much of the suffering we see today is a direct or indirect result of human actions—wars, greed, injustice, and neglect. While God does not cause these actions, He allows them for purposes we don't always understand. One could ask this question - what would the world be like, if man's actions were without (God's) restrain?
A Broken World
In addition to human-caused suffering, natural disasters, diseases, and accidents also raise questions about God’s role. The Bible explains that the world itself is broken because of sin. Romans 8:22 states, “For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.” This groaning reflects the brokenness of creation and the longing for restoration.
God’s Purpose in Pain
While pain and suffering are difficult to endure, the Bible reveals that God can use them for good. Romans 8:28 assures believers that “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Here are some ways God uses pain:
To Build Character: Trials can refine and strengthen faith. James 1:2-4 encourages believers to “Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”
To Draw People Closer to Him: Pain often prompts people to seek God and rely on His strength. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
To Demonstrate His Power: In the account of Job, God allowed suffering to reveal His sovereignty and Job’s unwavering faith. Similarly, Jesus’ healing miracles in the New Testament showcased God’s power and compassion.
The Hope of Redemption
Christianity offers a unique perspective on suffering through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus experienced immense suffering, including betrayal, physical pain, and death on the cross. By doing so, He provided a way for humanity to be reconciled with God and offered the promise of eternal life.
Revelation 21:4 provides a glimpse of the future: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” This promise gives believers hope that pain and suffering are temporary and that ultimate restoration is coming.
Trusting God Amid Suffering
While we may not fully understand why God allows certain pain and suffering, the Bible encourages trust in His goodness and sovereignty. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that God’s ways are higher than ours, and His plans are beyond our comprehension.
For those grappling with pain, the Christian community is called to offer support, compassion, and prayer. Galatians 6:2 urges believers to “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.”
No one-size-fits-all answer
The question, “Why does God allow pain and suffering?” doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. However, the Christian faith provides a framework for understanding and enduring suffering. It emphasises God’s love, the importance of our choices, and the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ. By trusting in God’s plan and seeking His presence, we can find comfort and purpose even in the midst of life’s challenges.
What do we deserve?
The question, “Why does God allow pain and suffering?” should be considered once we explore how serious sin is. One sin brought a curse upon the world. Sin requires punishment. If God gave every one of us our wages now, who would stand? "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23.
The truth is, God is merciful. He is patient. As well as a bigger plan for humanity - we don't know the bigger picture - He has a plan to make right whosoever calls upon the Name of the Lord. A better question you might want to ask is "Why does God not give me my wages (death) now?"
What if I am not right with God?
It's so much more important to ask yourself if you are in a right relationship with God. If this is something that bothers you, then here is an article for you:
Did you know we offer a wide selection of free Christian scripture leaflets? Explore our extensive collection by clicking here: Free Gospel Tracts.
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