Biblical Answer

Why did God allow this suffering?

The Problem of Suffering

The question of why God allows suffering is a complex and deeply personal issue. On the one hand, it seems highly improbable that God could have good reasons for permitting the suffering in the world. So much of that suffering appears to be utterly pointless and unnecessary. On the other hand, the Bible teaches that God's ways are not our ways, and that He may have to allow a great deal of suffering along the way in order to achieve His purposes (Isaiah 55:8-9). This is seen in the life of Jesus, who underwent incomprehensible suffering for us because He loves us so much (John 3:16).

The Purpose of Suffering

The purpose of suffering is not always easy to understand, and it may seem pointless within our limited framework. However, God's wider framework reveals that suffering can be justly permitted by Him. Suffering can be a means of drawing us closer to God and deepening our relationship with Him. As the Bible says, "We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4). This is seen in the lives of many believers who have undergone suffering and have emerged stronger in their faith.

The Character of God

The question of why God allows suffering also raises questions about the character of God. Does He care about us? Is He good? The Bible teaches that God is a loving God who cares deeply about us (Psalm 136:1-3). However, it also teaches that God is a God of justice who must punish sin (Romans 3:23). Suffering can be a result of sin, and it can also be a means of discipline and correction (Hebrews 12:5-11). Ultimately, the question of why God allows suffering is not about the character of God, but about our relationship with Him. As the Bible says, "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (2 Corinthians 4:17). Suffering may be unpleasant, but it can be a means of drawing us closer to God and deepening our relationship with Him.