“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
bible verses about why god allows suffering
Purpose and Growth
As we reflect on why God allows suffering, we are reminded that every challenge we face can serve a greater purpose. Suffering is not just something to endure; it’s an opportunity for growth. When we go through difficult times, we often find ourselves drawing closer to God, seeking His comfort and strength. These moments can refine our character and deepen our faith, helping us to become the individuals God has created us to be. Through trials, we learn patience, perseverance, and empathy towards others who are suffering. We can find solace in knowing that God can turn our pain into something purposeful.
James 1:2-4
“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. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:2-4
Romans 5:3-5
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” – Romans 5:3-5
1 Peter 1:6-7
“In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith – of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire – may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” – 1 Peter 1:6-7
2 Corinthians 4:17
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” – 2 Corinthians 4:17
Psalms 119:71
“It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.” – Psalms 119:71
Comfort in Suffering
During our suffering, it’s easy to feel isolated and alone; however, God wraps us in His comfort. His presence reminds us that we are never truly alone in our struggles. When we face hardships, we can cling to His promises and trust that He has not abandoned us. God assures us that He is close to the brokenhearted and those crushed in spirit, offering solace and strength. Finding comfort in God during times of pain helps us to endure and reminds us that our trials can be a pathway to experiencing His love in deeper ways.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble.” – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Psalms 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalms 34:18
Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – Matthew 11:28-30
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
Testing of Faith
In God’s grand design, suffering often serves as a test of our faith. The trials we face check our spiritual resilience and open doors for us to stay committed to Him. When we trust God during our darkest hours, we strengthen our faith foundation. Instead of crumbling under pressure, we can choose to draw nearer to God, thereby allowing our struggles to transform us into stronger believers. Testing our faith through suffering is often how God prepares us for greater blessings and responsibilities. By staying the course, we demonstrate our trust in His plans for us.
1 Peter 4:12-13
“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” – 1 Peter 4:12-13
Job 23:10
“But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” – Job 23:10
Hebrews 12:7
“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?” – Hebrews 12:7
Romans 8:18
“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” – Romans 8:18
Matthew 5:10-12
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” – Matthew 5:10-12
Strengthening Community
Suffering provides a unique opportunity to strengthen our community ties. As we endure hardships together, we experience a heart connection with one another that allows us to support and uplift each other. We discover the importance of bearing one another’s burdens and the blessing of providing support to those who are in need. In suffering, we learn that we are not alone; we have a family in Christ who walks alongside us. Together, we uplift each other, cultivating compassion and unity, which deepens our relationships. Suffering can, therefore, forge connections that bring us closer as one body in Christ.
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Romans 12:15
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” – Romans 12:15
Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:3-4
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Ephesians 4:2-3
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:2-3
Sharing Christ’s Suffering
In our struggles, we are provided an opportunity to share in Christ’s suffering. By recognizing that Jesus faced immense pain and anguish, we can find comfort in knowing He understands our own trials. When we experience suffering, we can look to Him as our example of perseverance and faith. Embracing our suffering reflects our relationship with Christ, aligning us with His purposes. We can take comfort in sharing in His suffering while also spreading a message of hope and healing to those around us. Sharing Christ’s sufferings transforms our own pain into a testimony of His grace and unfailing love.
Philippians 3:10
“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.” – Philippians 3:10
Colossians 1:24
“Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.” – Colossians 1:24
Hebrews 5:8
“Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered.” – Hebrews 5:8
1 Peter 2:21
“To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” – 1 Peter 2:21
Revelation 2:10
“Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” – Revelation 2:10
Blessings and Hope
Even in the midst of suffering, we can find blessings and hope. While it may be challenging to see during hard times, God promises that His plan is to bring us hope and a future filled with purpose. Suffering prepares us for the blessings that God has in store for us. We can look forward to the day of restoration and rejoice in God’s faithfulness, knowing that after the trials come the blessings. Our suffering is not in vain; it contributes to the beautiful tapestry of life that God is weaving, pointing us towards a future filled with hope and joy. Embracing the hope that accompanies suffering encourages us to remain steadfast and trusting in His promises.
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Psalms 30:5
“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” – Psalms 30:5
Psalms 126:5-6
“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.” – Psalms 126:5-6
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the many reasons why God allows suffering, it becomes clear that our struggles can lead to growth, deeper faith, and connection with others. Suffering serves as a reminder of God’s comfort and purpose in our lives. Even when faced with hardship, we are called to trust in His greater plan and hold onto the hope of blessings that lie ahead.
When we endure trials together, we strengthen our community, uplift each other, and share in the love of Christ. Through all of this, we are reminded that suffering has a purpose and that it can lead us closer to God’s heart. Let’s continue to rely on His promises as we walk through life’s challenges.
If you are seeking more encouragement, check out these resources on Jesus suffering for our sins or Jesus suffering.