Biblical Answer

Understanding the Nature of Suffering

When we experience suffering, it can be challenging to understand why God allows it. Our initial reaction might be to ask, "Why didn't God heal me?" or "Why didn't God stop me from breaking my foot?" However, this line of thinking often stems from a faulty theology of suffering, which assumes that God's primary desire is to heal us. This perspective can lead to disappointment and despair when healing doesn't occur. The Bible, however, presents a different understanding of suffering. It acknowledges that God allows suffering for His own purposes, even when we don't understand them.

God's Sovereignty and Our Prayers

The Bible teaches that God is sovereign over all creation, including our lives. His sovereignty is not limited by our prayers or actions. While it may seem strange to us, God's actions are not bound by what we do, including our prayers. This means that God can choose to heal us or not, regardless of our faith or circumstances. The psalmist in Psalm 38:1-8, for example, prays for healing from God, acknowledging his sin and God's power to forgive and heal. However, God's response is not necessarily tied to the psalmist's prayers or actions. This understanding can be difficult to accept, but it is essential for developing a mature and biblical theology of suffering.

Reframing Our Questions

When we experience suffering, it's essential to reframe our questions. Instead of asking, "Why didn't God heal me?" we should ask, "Why did I break my coffee carafe?" or "Why did I get sick?" The answer to these questions often lies in our own actions or circumstances. By acknowledging our responsibility in the situation, we can begin to understand that God's sovereignty is not limited by our prayers or actions. This understanding can lead to a deeper trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, even in the midst of suffering. Ultimately, our goal should be to understand God's purposes and to trust in His goodness, rather than relying on our own understanding of why He allows suffering.