Biblical Answer

Understanding God's Sovereignty in Suffering

When faced with illness or suffering, it's natural to wonder why God allows such challenges. A faulty theology of suffering can lead us to believe that God wants to heal us simply because we are good people. However, the Bible teaches that God's sovereignty is not limited to our individual desires or expectations. As the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, God governs all things, including our lives, according to His will (Psalm 115:3). This means that even our suffering can be a means for God to reveal His character and bring good to us from it.

The Purpose of Suffering

While it may seem counterintuitive, the Bible suggests that suffering can be a means for God to draw us closer to Himself. In the book of Job, God's response to Job's suffering is not to heal him, but to reveal His own character and wisdom (Job 38-41). Similarly, Jesus' suffering on the cross was not a result of God's failure to protect Him, but rather a deliberate act of love to redeem humanity (Isaiah 53:10). This means that when we suffer, we are not necessarily being punished or neglected by God, but rather being given an opportunity to trust in His sovereignty and goodness.

Finding Hope in the Midst of Suffering

So, why does God allow evil and suffering to occur? The answer is not that He is unwilling or unable to stop it, but rather that He is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). This doesn't mean that we will always understand or enjoy the process, but rather that we can trust in God's goodness and sovereignty even in the midst of suffering. As the Bible says, "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:18). By choosing to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of suffering, we can find hope and peace that surpasses our understanding (Philippians 4:7).