But It Hurts!

by David Gibson

Why we suffer may be the most troubling of all questions. Atheists’ strongest argument is: How could a good God permit suffering? It is important to know what the Bible says about this so we won’t lose faith or grow bitter.

Suffering is a complex issue. It has no single cause.

• Sometimes we bring suffering on ourselves (I Peter 4:15).
• Often, we suffer when another person chooses to do wrong (II Timothy 4:14).
• Sometimes, God lets us suffer to bring about a greater good for others (Genesis 50:20).
• Or He may allow us to suffer to prevent us from sinning (II Corinthians 12:7-10).

When we suffer but do not know the reason, it is then especially important that we trust God. Suffering is a required course in the Christian curriculum (Hebrews 12:4-11). Some lessons we never learn otherwise (Psalms 119:67, 71; II Corinthians 1:8-10).

Here’s a comforting thought: Jesus came down here to suffer with us and for us. He understands like no one else (Hebrews 4:14-16). He showed us how to suffer (Hebrews 12:1-3; I Peter 2:18-23). And to suffer nobly.