## Step 1: Understanding the Problem of Suffering
The problem of suffering is a question that has puzzled humans for centuries. Why does God allow us to suffer when we're doing everything right? This question assumes that God is all-powerful and all-knowing, yet He permits suffering to occur. This raises questions about God's character, His purposes, and His relationship with humanity.
## Step 2: Exploring the Purpose of Suffering
Suffering can serve several purposes in our lives. It can be a means of discipline, allowing us to learn and grow as Christians. Suffering can also be a result of living in a sinful, fallen world. Additionally, suffering can be a way for God to work grace into our lives, helping us to develop a deeper relationship with Him. As the Bible says in Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
## Step 3: Understanding God's Sovereignty and Purpose
When we question why God permits suffering, we are, in effect, trying to reduce Him to human terms and subject Him to our moral judgment. This is a futile effort, as we are limited in our understanding and cannot fully comprehend God's purposes. God's sovereignty and purpose are not bound by our finite understanding. He allows suffering to occur for reasons that may not be immediately apparent to us, but are ultimately part of His larger plan to achieve His purposes.
The final answer is: There is no one definitive answer to the question of why God allows suffering, as it is a complex issue that raises questions about God's character, purposes, and relationship with humanity. However, the Bible suggests that suffering can serve several purposes, including discipline, a means of working grace into our lives, and a result of living in a sinful, fallen world. Ultimately, our limited understanding of God's purposes means that we must trust in His sovereignty and goodness, even when we cannot comprehend why He allows suffering to occur. We must also recognize that suffering can be a means of drawing us closer to God, helping us to develop a deeper relationship with Him. As the Bible says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28) Therefore, even in the midst of suffering, we can trust that God is working for our good and that our relationship with Him is the ultimate goal of our existence.