SUFFERING: How God Wants to Reduce It TODAYSample

Why Does God Allow Suffering?

In our previous reading, we explored the origins of suffering and its anticipated end here on earth.

Now, let’s review a "Top 15" list of reasons why God might allow suffering to continue today. These reasons have been compiled by theologians and religious writers, and each one is accompanied by a Bible reference (be sure to read the referenced verses in context if you dig in!).

In our “Top 15” list, we find the following reasons why God allows suffering:

1. To remove idols in our lives (1 John 5:21).
2. To make us more like Jesus (Romans 8:17).
3. To remind us that heaven is our home (John 15:19).
4. To test our faith (Job 1).
5. To strengthen our faith (James 1:2-4).
6. To train us in righteousness (Hebrews 12:7-11).
7. To keep us from becoming conceited/to humble us (2 Corinthians 12:7b, Psalm 119:71).
8. To make us long for rest in Christ (Colossians 3:2-4).
9. To help us identify with Christ's suffering (Romans 8:17).
10. To make us more dependent on God (2 Corinthians 1:9).
11. To draw us closer to God (Isaiah 45:7).
12. To develop our character and give us hope (Romans 5:3-5).
13. To encourage our fellow Christians (Philippians 1:14).
14. To comfort others who are suffering (2 Corinthians 1:4).
15. To give us a deeper impact for the lost and long for heaven (Philippians 1:13, 23).

Remember, this "Top 15" list is just a starting point, as there are many other verses in the Bible that deal with suffering and are not covered above.

You may still wonder,

"Why does God allow suffering to continue?”

“Why doesn't He make all things perfect again?"

This leads us back to our last reading—suffering was introduced into the world due to Adam and Eve's disobedience and continues today because of our own. Although Jesus died to cleanse us from our sins, our sinful nature keeps us and the world in a broken state.

In our next reading, we'll explore why suffering even affects those who may not have sinned against God—perhaps because they have never heard the message of the Bible or are too young to understand it. Stay tuned for further insights.