It is difficult to watch the unimaginable suffering happening now in the Middle East. As Americans we are still a bit removed from such tribulation, even after 9/11. That event reminded us that we are not immune from the terrors of this world, but for many it has faded into the past. We remember, yes, but … the fear and horror have faded.
Suffering. How often have we heard people question, “If God is good, why do we suffer? Why doesn’t He do something about it?”
That is probably the greatest question about Christianity. Why do people suffer?
People more intelligent than I have tried to answer that question, so I’m not even going to try. I will acknowledge two truths, however. God IS good, and yes, we DO suffer.
I understand that God granted mankind free will, and with that free will comes all the underlying dangers and disasters mankind can think up. I understand that the suffering in this world is directly linked to the rebellion that began with Adam and Eve in the Garden and that continues in us.
But I also understand two more great truths. God did not wipe us out because of our rebellion, neither did He leave us in our squalor. He sent His Son Christ Jesus our LORD so that we might have life eternal. [John 3:16]
And I also know that our suffering is confined to this world. It will not, cannot, enter the next. “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us.” [Romans 8:18 HCSB]
Thank you, LORD, that suffering is only in this present time, and for the glory that will be revealed in us. Amen!
