Why Does God Allow Suffering?

No one wants to suffer, but this is almost inevitable. Suffering is one of the most difficult parts of the human experience. Everyone faces hardship at some point, whether it is the pain of loss, sickness, betrayal or disappointment. As Christians, it’s natural to ask, “Why does God allow suffering?” If God is loving and powerful, why doesn’t He stop it?

This post explores the biblical perspective on suffering, the role of trials and temptations, and how we can find purpose in pain.

What Is Suffering?

The Oxford dictionary defines suffering as "the state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship." Suffering can take many forms, such as physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual. It may arise from personal choices, the actions of others, or circumstances beyond our control. In the Bible, suffering is often referred to as tribulation, affliction, or trials. The big question is, why is this intricate in our Christian experience?

While the world sees suffering as something to avoid at all costs, Scripture shows us that suffering is not meaningless. It is often the soil on which faith is refined and purpose is revealed.

Understanding Trials, Temptations, and Afflictions

James 1:2-4 tells us, “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.”

This scripture reveals that trials are not meant to break us but build us. However, to walk through them wisely, it is essential to understand the differences between trials, temptations, and afflictions, as each serves a unique purpose in our spiritual journey.

Trials

Trials are tests of faith allowed by God to purify, refine, and mature us. Just as gold is refined in fire, our faith is proven genuine through the heat of difficulty (1 Peter 1:6-7). Trials may come in the form of hardship, delay, loss, or personal challenge. God uses them to grow our endurance, deepen our trust in Him, and teach us to rely on His strength rather than our own.

Temptations

Temptations, on the other hand, are enticements to do wrong. They never come from God, as James 1:13 clearly states: “When tempted, no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.’ For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone.” Temptation often arises from our desires or the influence of the enemy. While God does not tempt, He may permit us to be tempted to reveal what is truly in our hearts and to teach us how to depend on His power to resist.

In 1 Corinthians 10:13, we are reminded that: “God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

Afflictions

Affliction refers to deep suffering or distress, often prolonged and painful. This could be physical illness, emotional wounds, oppression, or spiritual heaviness. The psalmist says, “It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes.” Psalm 119:71. In God’s sovereignty, afflictions are not wasted. They often drive us to our knees, draw us nearer to Him, and open our hearts to receive His comfort and guidance. Through affliction, we become more compassionate, humble, and sensitive to the needs of others.

The Purpose of Suffering from a Biblical Perspective

From Genesis to Revelation, we see that suffering has a purpose when placed in God’s hands. This is not to say it is from God, but God can use that suffering as a tool for refinement.

1. To draw us closer to God – Pain often makes us more aware of our need for God. It draws us to the one who can respond to our need. David wrote, “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.” — Psalm 119:71

2. To build character – Romans 5:3-4 reminds us, “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Trials shape us into who God wants us to be. Joseph, when sold into slavery, became what God designed him to be.

3. To reveal God’s glory – Jesus said that a man was born blind “so that the works of God might be displayed in him” (John 9:3). Sometimes, suffering is allowed so that God’s power can be made known.

4. To make us more like Christ – Jesus Himself suffered, and as His followers, we’re not exempt. But we are promised that through it, we are being transformed.

Finding Purpose amid Trials

Though suffering is painful, it’s not purposeless. Even when we don’t understand why, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes for our good (Romans 8:28).

Here’s how to find purpose in your trials:

• Remain close to God in prayer and His Word..

• Surround yourself with a supportive, faith-filled community

• Look for how God is shaping your heart and perspective.

• Trust that this season is preparing you for something greater

Final Thoughts

Suffering is part of our earthly journey, but it’s never wasted when we walk through it with God. We may not always get the answers we want, but we are promised peace, purpose, and hope. God uses suffering to refine us, redirect us, and reveal Himself in ways comfort never could.

So if you’re in a season of pain, know that God sees you. He is with you. And He’s doing something far greater than you can imagine, even in the midst of the storm.