Why Such Suffering and Sorrow?

Suffering teaches us patience. These words were found penned on the wall of a prison cell in Europe: "I believe in love even when I don't feel it. I believe in God even when He is silent."  - Billy Graham, Till Armageddon.

With all the latest tragedies which have occurred around the world in recent months, many have again asked the question, "Why?" Why does God allow such suffering, sorrow and death to happen; even to Christian believers? This, of course, is a timeless question. Why?

I will not even attempt an in-depth, scholarly explanation on this matter. Many, much more qualified and knowledgeable than I, have written or spoken on this topic. What I can do within the space and time allotted, however, is to try and break it down a little in order to help us better understand it.

Let's sift through some reasons why God allows it (suffering). If not for suffering, this world would become too attractive to leave. Surely, who would ever want to leave this transitory world? And since we'd have no interest in leaving, why would any of us bother to prepare for an eternal home with God?

But, the Bible declares that we are only sojourners and pilgrims while here. This is not our real home! Our Father has something much more wonderful in store for us (1 Peter 2:11; Hebrews 13:14; 2 Corinthians 5:1, 5).

Our next reason for the allowance of suffering is that it can bring out the best in us. Observe that during times of great crises and distress most people rise to the challenge (Romans 5:3-4).

Suffering may also present a great opportunity to silence the skeptics and critics of God. Recall  how Satan wanted to prove to God that Job served Him only because He had blessed him. What happened? Job's patience under the intense suffering he endured proved Satan wrong! This is the time that our value of being Christians breaks out. Our faith sustains us, and our love towards the hurting is demonstrated.

We are the recipents of so many good things in this life that it can become very easy for us to take them for granted. Our gratitude towards God becomes almost non-existent. We are unappreciative. Then suddenly you receive that bad medical report, or get laid-off from work. And, like a splash of ice-cold water to your face you see how much He has done for you (Philippians 1:3-8).

Many times we tend to think that we are self-sufficient; that we don't need nothin' from nobody! That is until disaster strikes, and we lose control of the situation. Then we realize just how dependent we are on Him. What an eye-opener that turns out to be (Acts 17:28)!

Suffering can also purify us by helping us to mature through trials (James 1:2-5). It can enable us to better serve others and be more sympathetic (Romans 12:15). And, very importantly, suffering teaches us how to pray (Romans 8:26). Oh, I know, we may pray at the right times and for the right things. However, there's nothing like a good dose of suffering to make us drop to our knees.

As I close today, I hope that I have helped you to see why a righteous and merciful God would permit suffering to happen, especially to those who are undeserving. We tend to look at suffering from OUR point of view only. But, from GOD'S viewpoint, the allowance of suffering is part of His plan to prepare us for eternity.

Scripture: Matthew 24:13; Romans 8:28; Ecclesiastes 7:14; Romans 8:35; Lamentations 3:22

Prayer: Dear God, I pray for those who are suffering at this moment, and so desperately need Your help. Amen

Have a blessed weekend!

Leila