Biblical Answer

Why Does God Allow Us to Suffer?

God's sovereignty and our limited understanding of the world are key factors in understanding why He allows us to suffer. Our knowledge and perspective are limited, and we often struggle to comprehend why God permits certain events or circumstances to occur. However, this does not mean that God is not actively involved in our lives or that He is indifferent to our suffering.

In fact, God's permission of suffering often serves a higher purpose. It allows Him to work grace into our lives and to deepen our relationship with Him. If we were to receive immediate rewards for our faith, we would become users of God, as Satan alleged of Job. Instead, God allows us to suffer in order to teach us valuable lessons, to refine our character, and to bring us closer to Him.

The Bible teaches us that suffering can be a catalyst for spiritual growth and maturity. When we undergo suffering, we are forced to confront our own mortality, the brevity of life, and the fragility of our existence. This can lead us to seek God's presence and guidance, to trust in His sovereignty, and to find comfort in His love. As the Bible says, "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). Ultimately, God's permission of suffering is not a reflection of His lack of love or power, but rather a demonstration of His wisdom and sovereignty.