Biblical Answer

The Weight of Expectations and the Reality of Suffering

Living for career, family, or even personal ambitions can lead to feelings of failure and worthlessness when things don't go as planned. The Bible teaches that we are all sinful and imperfect, and our efforts to live up to expectations can ultimately lead to suffering. This is not because God is punishing us, but because we are trying to control our lives and circumstances, rather than trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness. When we try to live for ourselves, we set ourselves up for disappointment and frustration.

The Discipline of Faith

However, when we choose to live by faith in Jesus Christ, we must be willing to surrender our own desires and expectations to God's will. This can lead to times of testing and trial, where we may feel like we're being punished or that God is not loving us. But the Bible teaches that these experiences are actually opportunities for growth and spiritual development. When we trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, we can joyfully submit to His discipline, even if it's difficult or uncomfortable. This is not about earning God's love or approval, but about living a life that reflects our faith in Him.

The Purpose of Suffering

So, why do we suffer? The Bible teaches that suffering can be a result of our own sinful choices or the consequences of living in a fallen world. However, when we trust in Jesus, we can see that our suffering is not ultimately about punishment, but about our relationship with God. When we suffer, we have the opportunity to draw closer to God and to learn to trust in His goodness and sovereignty. This is not to say that suffering is easy or pleasant, but it can be a powerful catalyst for spiritual growth and maturity. Ultimately, our goal as followers of Jesus is not to avoid suffering, but to learn to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.