Why Does God Allow Suffering?

God allows suffering because of the entrance of sin into the world, which brought consequences upon creation. However, He uses suffering to develop patience, hope, and spiritual growth in believers. Scripture assures us that God is close to the brokenhearted and will ultimately remove all pain and sorrow.

“And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.”

This passage shows that suffering and toil entered the world as a direct result of sin.

“And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”

Paul teaches that suffering produces spiritual growth and hope through God's love.

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

God's grace supports believers in their weakness and suffering.

“The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”

God is near to those who suffer and offers comfort.

“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”

God promises a future without suffering for His people.