Spiritual guidance powered by AI and grounded in Scripture
Your Question:
Why does God let us suffer so much when we're doing our best?
Answer:
As a pastor and a Christian, I've grappled with this question many times. It seems that suffering can be a mystery, and without Scripture's insights, it can feel random and senseless. But the Bible offers a different perspective. It shows us that God uses suffering to refine us, to make us capable of love and of having a loving relationship with Him. This is a beautiful truth that has given comfort to millions. In Scripture, we see examples of people who suffered, yet came to know God in a deeper way. Job, for instance, directly encountered God and became a changed man through his suffering. Ironically, his suffering can be seen as a gift of God's grace because it united him with God. This understanding has helped me to see that suffering is not just a punishment or a random event, but rather an opportunity for growth and intimacy with God. As I reflect on this, I'm reminded of the words of Paul in Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." This verse gives me hope and comfort in the midst of suffering. It reminds me that God is not the author of suffering, but He is gracious and loving enough to make it count for our good. He uses our suffering to strengthen us, to help us trust Him more, and to resist sin in the challenging path of obedience.
Sources:
depression
edward welch
jesus on trial
david limbaugh
warranted christian belief
alvin plantinga
systematic theology
wayne grudem
old testament theology
waltke
raising passionate jesus followers
phil diane comer
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