As I reflect on the question of why God allows chronic pain, I'm reminded of the complexities of God's sovereignty and human free will. In the Bible, it's clear that God desires no physical pain in His creation, but in certain instances, He decides not to prevent or remove it. This is evident in the story of Job, who, unlike us, knew that he deserved his suffering. His pain was both physical and psychological, yet he turned to God in repentance and faith.
Pain and suffering can serve as a wake-up call, reminding us of our human brokenness and alienation from God. By experiencing pain, we're forced to confront our sin and seek outside assistance, ultimately turning to God in faith. This is in line with the concept that God uses suffering to impart lessons and benefits to His creatures, even if we don't see it from our limited perspective. Perhaps, in allowing chronic pain, God is superintending everything, showing us that He cares and is perfectly fair and just, even if we don't see it immediately.
Ultimately, the question of why God allows chronic pain is a mystery that may be beyond our comprehension. However, as we consider this question, we must also acknowledge that our understanding of God is limited. It's not about knowing about God, but knowing God Himself. By turning to Him in humility and trust, we can find comfort and peace, even in the midst of suffering. As the Bible says, "God is our nearest environment." His center is our heart, and He desires a personal relationship with us, even in the midst of pain and suffering.