Life. It’s beautiful, but also a mystery. Sometimes a profound mystery. But also a perplexing one. And one mystery you and I often ask is, “Why is there so much suffering in the world?” Or better yet, “Why does so much suffering happen to me?”
“Suffering is everywhere, unavoidable, and its scope often overwhelms,” says Tim Keller.
Everywhere.
Unavoidable.
Overwhelming.
That means you and I, in this life, will suffer. And suffer a lot. For Paul says through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22).
I don’t know why your life is so hard. I’m not sure why God sends so many trials your way. I have no idea when it will end. But I know this: your hardships are not because God doesn’t love you.
Yes, remember the love of God in hard times. But don’t forget to also remember these three truths.
1) God brings you to the fire.
To say God allows suffering is one thing. To say God sends suffering is another. Both are biblical. But the later better reveals God’s sovereignty in your pain.
