Our Suffering Is Not Pointless

"The problem of pain is atheism’s most potent weapon against the Christian faith."  - C.S. Lewis

As I write, there are reports of yet more terrorist attacks occuring; this time in Paris, France. I had intended a different message which now, due to the violence of the day, I will put aside for another time. It is during times like these that we naturally ask questions, such as: "Why does God allow such violence in the world?" 

Many are confused by what they have heard and learned about the teachings of Jesus, and the seemingly unstoppable escalation of bloodshed in our world. You can rest assured that even the most seasoned and ardent Christian ponders this topic whenever such evil acts transpire.

Why does God allow suffering? Beyond any doubt, this is a complex question to answer. So much so, that theologians and philosophers have written complex and scholarly volumes that grapple with it. With that being said, let's investigate this topic from a less complicated perspective.

When tragedy strikes it affects all of us. As part of the human family, suffering is universal. Not one of us goes through life without experiencing it at some point. But if God is infinitely good and omnipotent, why does he allow these things to happen?

When confronted with perplexing queries like this, it's always a good idea to consult a good source. And what better source to look for help than God's Word itself.

This may come as a shock to many, but the Bible declares that God has chosen to consent to suffering (Ephesians 1:11; 2 Corinthians 12:7). As you may recall, scripture clearly shows that all human suffering is the result of the Fall. It's directly related to the curse that befell upon the earth because of sin. Additionally, corruption, suffering, and death were also included (Genesis 2:17; 3:17; Romans 5:12; 8:20-22).

An unfortuate outcome of catastrophe is that "innocent" people often die. Again, turning to the Bible we find that no one is truly innocent, or sinless. That means that you and I are sinners. We are all born sinners. Sin was first introduced into the world by the rebellion of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. We have all been rebelling against God ever since.

Sin is ingrained within us and around us. And all suffering that we experience can be traced back to that original sin (Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:23). I know this all must sound like gloom and doom so far; but God didn't leave us to pointlessly suffer. Being our loving and merciful God, he has a plan for us. He has a purpose for our pain and suffering.

First, he uses it to bring us closer to him. During difficult times, he wants us to reach out to Him. He is always waiting there to comfort and support us through our trials. Thusly, He proves His faithfulness and makes sure we will stay close to Him. As a bonus, experiencing God's comfort through our own struggles enables us to comfort others similarly (2 Corinthians 1:4).

Secondly, we observe firsthand proof of how real our faith is through suffering and pain. Our response to suffering is determined by how real our faith is or not. If our faith is truly from God, we should get through our trials in good fashion (1 Peter 1:7). This doesn't mean we won't take our lumps here and there; but the strength of our faith will help cushion the impact.

And lastly, our suffering enables God to make sure that we don't get obsessed with this world. In other words, we shouldn't get caught up in the things of this world at the expense of what comes after. This world, and everything in it will pass; but God's kingdom is eternal. He tells us "our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18).

Of course, God could do away with all suffering. But, he really does have a basis for doing what he does. Suffering is part of His great plan for us all. His plan is perfect, and good. And, being of unblemished character; those who trust in Him won't be disheartened.

At this time, I wish to extend the prayers and deepest condolences of our entire ministry team to all who have been affected by the deplorable events in France. May God be with you.

Scripture: Romans 5:3-5; 1 Peter 5:10; James 1:2-4; John 16:33; 1 Peter 4:12

Prayer: Dear Jesus, I want you in the center of my life. And I commit, through your power, to serve and obey you always. Amen

Have a blessed day!

Heidi