214: If God is For Me, Why Am I Suffering?

Feb 9, 2024

If God is For Me, Why Am I Suffering?

What happens when suffering comes? Often, we feel that God is against us or that we’ve done something wrong. In this episode, we explore principles from the Book of Job in the Bible and other relevant scriptures to offer insights that challenge conventional perspectives on suffering. Understanding the purpose behind suffering and how faith can be a guiding light in our darkest times will help us to endure the suffering seasons when they come.

The Paradox of Job’s Story

Job was a righteous man who faced unimaginable trials despite his blameless life. Job’s suffering was not a result of his wrongdoing; rather, it was a part of a larger plan initiated by God. This paradoxical situation prompts us to question why a loving and benevolent God would allow such hardships to befall one of His faithful servants.

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The story of Job serves as an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of God’s ways. While it may seem counterintuitive, God’s allowed suffering may be an indication of trust. Like a parent allowing a child to face challenges to foster growth, God might be allowing us to endure trials to prove our resilience and deepen our connection with Him.

The Testing of Our Faith

In this Christian life, your faith will be tested. Sometimes beyond what you think you can bear. The apostle James puts it this way:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” (James 1:2-4).

This biblical perspective challenges the notion that a life of faith should be devoid of suffering. Instead, it suggests that trials serve as a crucible, refining and strengthening our faith.

Maturing Through Trials

Comparing the testing of our faith to the challenges faced in relationships, we learn that true unconditional love is not shielded from sorrow, suffering, or pain. We can apply this analogy to our relationship with God when we are suffering. We understand the idea that maturity in faith is achieved through enduring trials. Just as a couple’s love matures through overcoming conflicts, our faith matures as we navigate the storms of life.

The Purpose of Providential Wisdom

God does not cause suffering, but he does allow it. When we follow the concept of this providential wisdom, we’ll see that God, in His infinite knowledge, may allow trials for a greater purpose. We may not fully comprehend this in the midst of our suffering, which is why it’s important to grasp these truths now. The narrative of Job reveals that God’s purpose goes beyond the restoration of material possessions; it includes the refinement of character and the preservation of integrity.

Trusting God Amidst Pain

I offer a comforting prayer toward the end of the podcast for those facing suffering, acknowledging that God’s plans are always good. We are taught the importance of trusting God even when the reasons for our pain remain unclear. As we surrender our will to God’s will, we can find solace in the assurance that God is working all things together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

Be encouraged as your faith is strengthened, your trust in God’s love is deepened, and you recognize that suffering does not indicate that God is against you. Instead, it may signify God’s belief in your ability to endure and emerge stronger from whatever life (or even the Enemy) throws your way.