Biblical Answer

The Mystery of Suffering and Blessing

The question of why suffering occurs when one is supposed to be blessed is a complex and age-old problem. From the perspective of Christian theology, suffering is not necessarily a contradiction to blessing. In fact, the Bible teaches that suffering can be a means of increasing our capacity for joy in all circumstances. This is because suffering has the potential to draw us closer to God and to deepen our faith. As the apostle Peter wrote, "If you are suffering as though God were not kindling a love for you in you, suffer well" (1 Peter 2:20). This means that suffering can be a catalyst for spiritual growth and a means of increasing our capacity for joy.

The Relationship Between Suffering and Blessing

In order to understand why suffering occurs when one is supposed to be blessed, it is helpful to examine the biblical concept of blessing. According to Scripture, to be blessed is to be happy in a very full and rich sense. It involves being in a right relationship with God and experiencing His favor and protection. However, this blessing is not always evident in the midst of suffering. In fact, the Bible teaches that suffering can be a result of sin or rebellion against God. When we sin or rebel against God, we forfeit His blessing and experience the consequences of our actions. This is why the Bible says, "Where is the blessedness I knew when first I saw the Lord? Ought certainly to ask himself, before he goes any further, whether there have been particular wilful sins that made Thee mourn, And drove Thee from my breast" (Psalm 51:12).

The Purpose of Suffering

The purpose of suffering is not to punish us or to make us miserable, but rather to draw us closer to God and to deepen our faith. As Jesus said, "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10). This means that suffering can be a means of increasing our capacity for joy and a way of experiencing God's blessing in a deeper and more meaningful way. Ultimately, the purpose of suffering is to prepare us for the glory that awaits us in heaven, where we will experience God's blessing in all its fullness. As the apostle Paul wrote, "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us" (Romans 8:18). This means that even in the midst of suffering, we can find joy and hope in the promise of God's blessing.