The question of suffering is an ancient one, asked in many forms: "If God is so good, why is there so much suffering in the world?" Many grapple with this question, especially when facing personal loss or witnessing large-scale tragedies. While we may not find a simple answer, Scripture offers perspectives that can anchor us in faith when we confront suffering.
Perspective 1: The Beginning
To understand suffering, we must go back to the beginning of human history. Genesis 3 recounts the fall, when Adam and Eve disobeyed God, bringing sin and suffering into a world that was initially perfect. This act of rebellion set off a chain reaction, affecting all creation with consequences like pain, toil, and ultimately death. Suffering, therefore, is not random but a consequence of humanity's separation from God. We may wonder why suffering exists, but the true question, in light of our rebellion, might be why we experience so much grace and happiness at all.
Perspective 2: The End
Scripture assures us that suffering is temporary. Revelation 21 and 22 provide a vision of a restored creation, where there is no more death, mourning, or pain. God will bring justice, eradicating all suffering and evil. The Bible encourages us to view present hardships in light of the future, holding on to the promise of a world where suffering no longer exists.
Perspective 3: The Center—The Cross
At the centre of history stands the cross of Jesus Christ, where God Himself experienced profound suffering on our behalf. Through Jesus' sacrifice, God provided a way to restore us to Himself and ultimately free us from suffering. Jesus knows what it is to suffer, to feel abandonment, and to endure pain for the sake of love. When we look to the cross, we see a God who understands suffering intimately and who suffers alongside us.
Conclusion
While these perspectives do not eliminate the mystery of suffering, they provide a framework for trusting in God's goodness, justice, and compassion. By looking to the beginning, the end, and the cross, we find an assurance that God is not indifferent to our pain but actively working to bring about a day when suffering will be no more.
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