Biblical Answer

The Problem of Suffering

The question of why God allows suffering, even when we are doing everything right, is a complex and deeply personal issue. On the one hand, we might expect God to reward our obedience and faithfulness with comfort, prosperity, and happiness. On the other hand, we often experience suffering and hardship, even when we are living according to God's will. This can lead to feelings of confusion, frustration, and even resentment towards God.

The Purpose of Suffering

However, as we delve deeper into the Bible, we find that suffering is not always a punishment for sin or a sign of God's displeasure. In fact, suffering can be a means by which God works out His purposes in our lives. As the apostle Peter writes, "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps" (1 Peter 2:21). This means that we can trust that God is at work in our suffering, even when we don't understand why it's happening. Moreover, suffering can be a catalyst for spiritual growth and maturity, as it allows us to develop a deeper trust in God and a greater dependence on Him.

The Sovereignty of God

Ultimately, the reason for God's allowance of suffering is not for us to know, but for us to trust. As Job himself said, "God, I don't know what you are doing, but you do, and that is enough" (Job 40:2). This is not to say that God is arbitrary or capricious in His dealings with us. Rather, it is to acknowledge that God's ways are not our ways, and that His purposes often involve suffering and hardship. As the apostle Paul writes, "We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4). By trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, we can find joy and peace in the midst of suffering, even when we don't understand why it's happening.