Biblical Answer

The Problem of Suffering and God's Sovereignty

The question of why God allows suffering when we're trying to do what's right is a complex and deeply personal issue. From a biblical perspective, suffering is not necessarily a punishment for wrongdoing, but rather a natural consequence of living in a fallen world. As the Bible teaches, "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). This means that suffering can be a result of our own sin, or the sin of others around us. However, God is not the author of suffering, but rather the one who can bring good out of it (Romans 8:28).

The Sovereignty of God and Human Freedom

Some argue that if God is all-powerful and loving, He should prevent all suffering. However, this perspective overlooks the reality of human freedom and the consequences that come with it. God's sovereignty is not a tyranny, but rather a wise and just governance that allows for human freedom and choice. This means that God's options are restricted by human freedom, and He may permit suffering in order to bring about a greater good. The Bible teaches that God is not limited by our finite understanding, and His reasons for permitting suffering may be beyond our comprehension. As the psalmist wrote, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Finding Comfort in God's Sovereignty

In the face of suffering, it's easy to question God's goodness and sovereignty. However, the Bible teaches that God is not absent or uninvolved in our suffering. Rather, He is present and working to bring about a greater good. As the apostle Paul 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). This means that even in the midst of suffering, we can trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. We may not understand why God allows suffering, but we can trust that He is working all things together for our good. As the Bible teaches, "God, I don't know what you are doing, but you do, and that is enough" (Job 40:2). In the end, our relationship with God is not about understanding why He allows suffering, but about trusting Him in the midst of it.