The question of why God allows innocent people to suffer is one that has challenged believers and non-believers alike for centuries. Scripture provides some insights into this difficult issue, even if it does not offer a complete explanation.
First, the Bible makes clear that pain and suffering entered the world through human sin. When Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden, their rebellion had consequences not only for themselves but for all of creation (Genesis 3:14-19). Ever since the fall, humanity has lived in a world tainted by sin, with sickness, natural disasters, relational brokenness, and death ever-present realities.
Second, God does not cause evil, but He does allow it. Scripture teaches that God is sovereign and in control over all things (Colossians 1:16-17). He possesses the power to prevent any evil or suffering from occuring, and yet in His wisdom He has chosen to allow it. This does not mean He takes pleasure in suffering or is the author of evil (James 1:13). But it does indicate God has purpose in permitting things He could choose to prevent.
Why does God allow suffering? The Bible points to several important reasons:
1) Suffering exposes the devastating consequences of sin. When we experience pain and loss firsthand, it underscores the tragedy that occurs when humanity rebels against their Creator. Suffering highlights the necessity of salvation through Christ (Romans 5:12-21).
2) Suffering refines and perfects character. As Christians endure trials, their faith and perseverance are tested and strengthened. Suffering has a way of purifying believers, burning away impurities and distractions (James 1:2-4, 1 Peter 1:6-7).
3) Suffering enables ministry to others. Those who have endured difficulties are uniquely equipped to minister to and comfort those going through the same troubles (2 Corinthians 1:3-7). Suffering develops compassion and equips Christians for service.
4) Suffering provides opportunities to trust God. Human weakness in trials casts us upon the strength and grace of God. Suffering drives us to depend on Him rather than ourselves (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). It is an opportunity to deepen our trust and experience His presence in extraordinary ways during dark times.
5) Suffering will be redeemed. Scripture teaches God will one day deliver the world from all sin, pain and death and restore all things (Revelation 21:1-4). The suffering believers endure now will seem light and momentary in view of the eternal joy and reward to come (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). Our present sufferings cannot thwart God’s ultimate plan of redemption.
6) Suffering displays God’s sovereignty and glory. When believers endure horrific trials yet remain faithful to Christ, it testifies to the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus. It demonstrates God’s amazing power to sustain His children through unimaginable difficulties (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). Suffering highlights there are eternal things far more meaningful than temporal comfort or success.
While the reasons provided above give some insight into why God permits suffering, only He fully understands why He allows what He does. God sees the beginning and the end, while humanity grasps only a fragmented perspective. As God told Job, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Nevertheless, Scripture gives many promises that God will be near to those who are suffering (Psalm 34:18-19). He will provide strength equal to what believers are called to endure (Isaiah 43:2). For the Christian, suffering is always purposeful – even if that purpose is not yet understood. It is used by God to accomplish His sovereign will (Rom. 8:28). And one day, Christians will be able to look back at trials and understand how God used them for good in ways they never imagined (1 Corinthians 13:12).
In this fallen world, pain and hardship are inescapable. But Christ offers hope that extends beyond present grief. He conquered sin and death on the cross, proving He is more powerful than any evil or affliction believers face. For the Christian, suffering leads not to despair but to a deeper experience of the love, power and promises of God. He causes all things – even suffering – to work for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). While God often does not provide the “why” behind suffering here on earth, He does promise to walk closely with His children through the darkest valleys. And one day, when believers are finally home with Christ, they will understand fully the purposes He had in allowing the trials He did.
In summary, although we may not fully understand why God allows suffering, we can trust His wisdom and sovereignty. Scripture provides insights into how God can use pain for His glory and believers’ good. It reminds us that Christ has overcome this fallen world and offers eternal life where “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4). For the Christian, their present sufferings cannot thwart God’s ultimate plan of redemption and restoration.