How can a loving God allow pain and suffering in this world?
Suffering Soul
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Dear Suffering Soul,
God never promised that there will be no pain or suffering in our lives. In fact, followers of Christ are called to deny themselves and take up their crosses. (Matthew 16:24) That is we will have to bear the same suffering that Christ went through. However, God promises us that He will never leave or forsake us. (Deut. 31:6, 8, Joshua 1:5)
Sometimes our suffering is caused by our own sin. Sometimes, we suffer so that God�s glory and power may be revealed in our lives. (John 9:1-3) We may also go through trials so that God can mold us into who He wants us to be, just like Jesus. (2 Cor. 4:7-10)
God is not the source of suffering and pain, nor does he tempt anyone. But in the world, we should look to Him in faith, trust and love - and when we do, we have glorified Him through our suffering and pain.
When we go through hard times, remember that Jesus went through the same suffering when He died on the Cross for us. He feels the same pain that we do. Remember also that God�s Grace is sufficient in our times of weaknesses. (2 Cor. 12:7-10).
There are no easy answers to this question, especially when it comes down to individual cases. We need to trust that our God is a sovereign God. He is in control of all things!
In Christ,
Agape Counselors
