The problem of suffering—often called the 'problem of evil'—is arguably the greatest obstacle to faith for many people. If God is entirely good and entirely powerful, why is there so much pain in the world?
While the Bible doesn't offer a single, simple tagline to resolve this mystery, it provides a comprehensive framework for understanding it.
1. We Live in a Broken World
According to the Genesis narrative, suffering was not part of God's original design. Pain, disease, and death entered the world as a direct result of humanity's rebellion. God gave human beings free will because true love requires a choice. Unfortunately, the consequence of humanity choosing independence from God is the broken, suffering world we live in today.
2. God is not distant from our suffering
Unlike philosophical concepts of a detached deity, the Christian God literally entered into human suffering. In Jesus Christ, God experienced betrayal, physical torture, grief, and death. When we suffer, we pray to a God who knows exactly what tears feel like.
3. God uses suffering for our ultimate good
The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 5 that suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope. Often, pain is the very instrument God uses to shape our spiritual maturity and draw us closer to Him, stripping away our superficial dependencies.
4. Suffering has an expiration date
The Bible's story ends in Revelation 21 with a promise: 'He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.' For the believer, suffering is temporary, and glory is eternal.