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Selah · Answered from Scripture

Why does God allow suffering?

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What Scripture says

Not only this, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering works perseverance;

Romans 5:3

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you fall into various temptations,

James 1:2

But may the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.

1 Peter 5:10

I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33

For he does not afflict willingly, nor grieve the children of men.

Lamentations 3:33

For they indeed, for a few days, punished us as seemed good to them; but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness.

Hebrews 12:10

Verses quoted from the World English Bible (public domain).

A reflection

God allows suffering as a means of developing perseverance and character in believers, as seen in Romans 5:3 and James 1:2. While suffering is not something He afflicts upon us willingly (Lamentations 3:33), it can serve a greater purpose, bringing about spiritual growth and deeper reliance on Him (1 Peter 5:10, Hebrews 12:10). In times of suffering, we are reminded that Christ has overcome the world and offers us peace amid our struggles (John 16:33).

This reflection was written by AI from the verses above. The verses are quoted verbatim; the AI never writes Scripture.

Where traditions read it

Catholic
The Catholic tradition emphasizes that suffering can purify and sanctify us, bringing us closer to God. It teaches that in participating in Christ's suffering, we also share in His glory.
Orthodox
The Orthodox Church views suffering as a mystery that can lead to spiritual growth, emphasizing that through suffering, we may become partakers of divine grace and salvation.
Protestant
Many Protestant traditions see suffering as an opportunity for spiritual growth and a means to develop perseverance, with some emphasizing that it can strengthen faith and lead to a deeper understanding of God’s will.

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