Why Does God Allow Saints to Suffer?
“Oh, my Lord! How true it is that whoever works for you is paid in troubles! And what a precious price to those who love you if we understand its value” (Saint Teresa of Avila).
As the archetype of suffering, Jesus has invited the saints to share in sufferings, knowing that it leads to a higher and glorious outcome. Still, many do not see the value in suffering and ask why God would allow even the saints such a writhing endeavor. If not endured spiritually, suffering can make one feel as if God is not near or has left His children to suffer alone; this is not the case as God has shown in the Bible. While God has not left His children alone, He is even closer to the brokenhearted (Ps 34:18) and is ever ready to help them through their sufferings by bestowing His grace upon them.
To be sure, God is not only near during the sufferings of His children, but God is wholly involved in the suffering of the saints. Understanding and applying what Scripture says about suffering will allow the saints to have victory in their suffering. God wrote in His word not only why saints suffer but how they should suffer, the benefits of suffering, and what they can expect from suffering. God has demystified suffering in the Holy Scriptures and has demonstrated how He will ultimately end all suffering. God has a plan to bring about a greater good and is seeking a partnership with the saints through suffering. God has not deserted the suffering saint. He is in the struggle with His children and orchestrating the whole ordeal.
One of the most significant obstacles to having faith in God is pain and suffering. Many people feel forsaken by God or do not believe He exists because they are going through pain and suffering. The truth is that God has not abandoned His children during times of suffering. He promised in His word that He would never leave or abandon them (Deut 31:8). God offers answers to the following questions many saints have regarding suffering: Why saints suffer, how should saints suffer, what is the benefit of suffering, and the outcome of suffering?
The saints are not exempt from suffering but are called to take part in suffering on behalf of the gospel by the power of God (2 Tim 1:8). Saints suffer to bring about a godly life in Christ Jesus, understanding that God has their eternal good in view (2 Tim 3:12). Christ warned that following Him meant suffering; this is a part of life in Christ. It is also suitable for saints to suffer to better understand God’s laws (Ps 119:71). The Bible further teaches that saints achieve obedience to God’s word and His will through suffering (Heb 5:8). Finally, saints must understand that their suffering is only for a short time compared to the eternal glorious life that is awaiting them (2 Cor 4:17).
The Bible not only explains why saints suffer, but it helps them to know how to suffer in order that they may not falter. Saints are reminded to think of how Christ suffered in order that they remain faithful, patient, and without sin to fulfill the will of God (1 Pet 4:1). Another aspect the Bible teaches on how to suffer is that saints should not be ashamed when going through pain and suffering. A common misconception has been that if a saint is suffering, they are not blessed, or God has left them; that is not true. The Bible reassures in 1 Peter 4:16 to not be ashamed of suffering as a saint but to give God glory.
Another instruction the Bible teaches on suffering are the benefits of suffering. Saints should understand that sufferings are to bring confirmation of the positive changes they can expect to come in their life as a result of victorious suffering. Suffering produces endurance, character, and hope because God’s love is in them by way of the Holy Spirit (Rom 5:3-5). Ultimately, suffering produces maturity and perseverance in the saints, strengthening their faith and bringing them into God’s loving arms.
Finally, the saints can expect to be delivered from the pain of suffering; there will be an end to their pain (Ps 34:19). No matter the reason for the suffering, even if for righteousness’ sake, they will receive a blessing from God and do not have to be concerned or afraid of anyone. God has a plan for the suffering of His children, a plan so great and glorious that it cannot be compared to present sufferings (Rom 8:18). God will use the suffering of the saints to bring about greater glory and will eventually cause all suffering to cease; this is the expectation of the saints and the promise of God according to the Holy Scriptures.
God would not have included this much information in the Bible on suffering if He was not concerned with the saints. God is right there in the midst of it all, assisting His children to bear the pain and suffering of this world with His amazing grace. God’s righteousness and strength are on display as He has proven to be a present help in times of suffering (Ps 46:1).
God is turning mourning to laughter and using weakness to display strength. God is the only one who knows how to bring about a greater good from suffering; He has a purpose for the pain. Proper understanding of what God has said in the Bible about suffering will help saints endure and expect the greater glory that is to come.