The Bottom Line, Ministries Christian News, Articles, & Poetry 
Why Does God Allow Suffering?
In the face of tragedy and suffering, especially in light of the devastating Hurricanes that just blew up towns and wiped them out of existence…many individuals may find themselves asking, “Why does God allow innocent babies or good people to die in horrific scenarios or illnesses?” This question has troubled humanity for centuries, and while we may not have all the answers right here and now, the Bible offers us major guidance, comfort, and a glimpse of hope.
The Reality of Suffering
The Bible acknowledges the reality of suffering. Jesus Himself said, “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Suffering is a part of our fallen world, a consequence of sin entering through Adam and Eve (Genesis 3). Yet, God promises to be with us in our suffering, offering His presence and comfort.
Trusting God’s Sovereignty
One of the most challenging aspects of faith is trusting God’s sovereignty, especially when life doesn’t make sense. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Trusting God means believing that He is in control, even when we cannot see the bigger picture.
Reflective Questions
- How do I respond to suffering in my life or the lives of others?
- Do I trust God’s plan, even when it is painful or confusing?
- How can I offer support and comfort to those who are suffering?
Moral Takeaways
- Empathy and Compassion: We are called to weep with those who weep (Romans 12:15). Showing empathy and compassion reflects God’s love to those in pain. Holding their hands, visiting providing items they may need, be in food, clothing, help in their tasks, or just an open ear and heart.
- Faith in Adversity: Our faith is tested and strengthened through trials. James 1:2-3 says, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” So many of us endure trials, some seem to latch onto another and another. While still some barely face adversity – but let’s no make no mistake, we all will suffer tribulations at one time in our life, or perhaps throughout our lives.
- Hope in God’s Promises: Romans 8:28 (KJV) assures us, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Even in suffering, God is working for our good.
- As He says in Isaiah 61:3-“To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.”
Personal Prayers
- Prayer for Trust: “Lord, help me to trust You even when I don’t understand. Strengthen my faith and remind me of Your promises.”
- Prayer for Comfort: “Heavenly Father, comfort those who are suffering. Surround them with Your love and peace that surpasses all understanding.”
- Prayer for Hope: “God of hope, fill me with all joy and peace in believing, so that I may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13, KJV).
Hope for Believers
For those who love God but wonder why bad things happen to good people, remember that our hope is not in this world but in the eternal life promised through Jesus Christ. Revelation 21:4 gives us a glimpse of this hope: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”
Conclusion
While we may never fully understand why God allows certain things to happen, we can trust in His goodness and Sovereignty. Our faith calls us to lean on Him, especially in times of suffering, and to offer His love and comfort to those around us. Let us hold onto the hope that one day, all suffering will cease, and we will be with Him in perfect peace.
And although we can’t make sense of certain things in this lifetime, when we pass onto Eternal rewards – we will understand, and rejoice in the goodness of the LORD, a goodness and joy that supersedes and overturns all of the sadness and tribulations in this lifetime!
Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
We know that in this world, we will face challenges and suffering, but we also know that the LORD is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
“Lord, we ask for Your comfort and peace to envelop those who are struggling right now. May they feel Your loving arms around them, providing solace and hope. Remind them, Father, that You are always with them, even in the darkest valleys. Help us to trust in Your perfect plan, even when we do not understand it. Give us the faith to believe that You are working all things together for our good, as You have promised in Your Word. Strengthen our hearts and minds, so that we may find rest in Your promises. Lord, we lift up those who are suffering, asking that You grant them healing, both physically and spiritually. May they find comfort in Your presence and assurance in Your love. Let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Thank You LORD, for Your unfailing love and faithfulness. We trust in You and surrender our worries and fears into Your capable hands. May Your Will be done in our lives, and may we always find our hope and strength in You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Isaiah 41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
