Why God Allows Pain

Why God Allows Pain

Why God allows pain. It’s not because he likes to see us hurt. But to remind us it’s a consequence of sin. To help us grow in character. And show us the way to a better life.

Why God allows pain. To remind us it’s a consequence of sin.

I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children. (ESV, Genesis 3:16)

Cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life; thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field. (ESV, Genesis 3:17)

Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. The first sinful act of humanity. And since then, it has multiplied into many forms of evil. Today, the depth and breadth of sin is extraordinary and the pain it causes often unbearable. Not just physically, but emotionally, pschologically, and spiritually.

After Adam and Eve confessed to eating the fruit, God told them it would change everything in the world. And it did. Today, it’s clear the world and all people in it are broken. Especially in our relationship with God. Sin caused it. And pain is a result. Although God offers a solution.

But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (ESV, Romans 5:8)

By accepting Jesus as Lord and savior our relationship with God is restored. We won’t escape pain on earth. But that too will end.

Why God allows pain. He uses it to grow our character

Though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself anymore, but your eyes shall see your teacher. And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. (ESV, Isaiah 30:20-21)

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. (ESV, Romans 5:3-5)

Sin is too pervasive to completely escape pain on earth. But we can lessen it by following Jesus and obeying God’s word. Jesus does not over burden us and the Bible is not a rule book that eliminates all our fun. But an instruction manual for our benefit that shows us how to live purpose filled lives in healthy relationship with God and others.

God also uses pain to grow our character. Learn patience. And remind us we are not self-sufficient. Because pain encourages us to lean on God’s strength. See His care for us and the world with greater clarity. And gain new perspectives on life.

Furthermore, physical pain is a form of self-protection. A safety warning to avoid serious injury and even death. But perhaps we should consider life without pain. Would we recognize the extent of our sinful condition and brokeness without it? Or maybe settle for “this is as good as it gets” and simply accept it?

Why God allows pain. He uses it to show us a better life

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (ESV, Romans 8:28)

Pain makes us seek relief. And look to God for a better life. Because when you’re collapsed at the bottom of the pit of pain, the only direction to look is up.

It also reminds us that very little in life is actually in our control. We are vulnerable and dependent on God’s grace. But He generously extends it to those who seek Him and ask for it. And it’s in the times of our greatest weakness that God reveals His strength. Showers us with mercy. And demonstrates His love.

Of course, we don’t look for pain. Or welcome it. But by exercising our faith and leaning of God, we spiritually benefit from it. And there is a hope that fuels our perseverance through it. For those who place their faith and trust in Jesus, there is a final release from pain. Along with an everlasting life in heaven.

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. (ESV, Revelation 21:4)

About Chip Tudor:

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview. This blog is originally published here.

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When Church People Hurt You

When Church People Hurt You

When church people hurt you it can be a painful experience. Because the church is supposed to be a community of faith. The Bride of Christ. A spiritual hospital for sinners. And yet, the haven for spiritual recovery can also dish out the spiritual hurt. And when you’re the victim, you may feel angry, abandoned, and betrayed. Here are some thoughts to guide in your recovery.

When church people hurt you, don’t blame God

Whenever we suffer it’s natural to ask God why? Sometimes even blame him for it. But it’s not God’s fault when church people hurt you. Why? Because…

  • God gives us free will
  • Church people exercise free will like everyone else
  • Free will and the decisions we make are influenced by a sinful heart

That means when people exercise their freewill–even church people–their words and actions are sometimes harmful. God may have permitted it, but he didn’t cause it. Nor is it His will. So don’t blame him for something people are responsible for.

It’s also natural to direct anger toward the church. And to punish it by dropping out, which only makes Satan celebrate. However, your pain was likely caused by one or maybe a few people. Not EVERYONE at church. So don’t cut yourself off from those who want to support, encourage, and walk alongside you.

When church people hurt you, trust God’s faithfulness and promises

When you are hurting, turn towards God rather than away. You’ll find truth and comfort from his word and soothing encouragement from His Spirit through prayer. The more you seek Him, the more you discover His…

Also, don’t forget Jesus understands unjust treatment. But he endured it on our our behalf. That’s genuine love!

When church people hurt you, ask God for a spirit of forgiveness

Don’t wait for church people to apologize, but actively forgive them. If they are led by his Spirit, he will convict them, and they will seek reconciliation. But not everyone at church is led by the spirit. Some are not even true followers of Christ. So don’t count on everyone at church to act in a Christ-like manner. Even though they are supposed to.

Also, remember that forgiveness is not so much for the offender as it is for you. Yes, you may be an innocent victim of unfair treatment. But after a while, your pain turns into anger followed by a spirit of bitterness that takes root and grows. And that bitterness becomes your sin.

That’s why Jesus commands us to forgive. Because otherwise, the pain and hurt we carry eventually becomes a heavy chain of anger and bitterness that binds us. Forgiveness is the key that sets us free.

Even in the midst of a torturous death of crucifixion, Jesus forgave those who perpetrated evil against him. And he intervened for them to his Father.

Trust God and move forward by faith

Church people can inflict deep, serious wounds that may take a long time to heal. But God is the great physician. While those injuries may slow you down, keep moving forward. And don’t let your feelings guide you because they are unreliable. Especially when they are bruised and bleeding.

Instead, let God’s Word be your trusted guide and faith the engine that moves you forward. God will lead the way, make you stronger, and equip you to encourage and support another spiritual casualty.

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.

Looking for a Bible Study for yourself or small group?

Check out Philippians Bible Study For Individuals and Groups.