Biblical Answer

The Question of Suffering: Why Does God Allow It?

Understanding the Mystery of Suffering

Suffering is a universal human experience that has puzzled people for centuries. It is a question that has been asked by many, including the biblical character Job, who cried out to God, "Why have you made me your target?" (Job 13:24). The question of suffering is complex, and it is natural to seek answers. However, the nature of suffering is multifaceted, and it is not always possible to discern God's reasons for permitting it. Suffering can be a result of living in a sinful, fallen world, and sometimes it is because God is disciplining us for our good (Hebrews 12:5-11). Nevertheless, we are assured by Romans 8:28 that God works all things together for our good.

The Sovereignty of God

God's sovereignty over all creation is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith. He is the all-knowing, all-powerful, and all-good God who governs the universe according to His will. While we may not always understand God's reasons for permitting suffering, we can trust that He is working all things together for our good. The Bible teaches that God's ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). We must be careful not to reduce God to human terms and subject Him to our moral judgment. Instead, we should seek to understand God's perspective on suffering, which is often different from our own.

Finding God in Suffering

The biblical account of Job's suffering teaches us that finding God in our suffering is the point. Job's friends tried to offer explanations for his suffering, but they failed to understand God's perspective. Job, on the other hand, came to understand that his suffering was not a punishment from God, but rather an opportunity for him to deepen his relationship with God. Similarly, when we undergo suffering, we must seek to find God in it. We can trust that God is working all things together for our good, even when we do not understand why we are suffering. By trusting God and seeking to find Him in our suffering, we can experience spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with Him. As the psalmist wrote, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).