Article: FINDING PURPOSE IN PAIN AND SUFFERING: THE CHRISTIAN LIFE | Christeena Gladson

An aspect of the human experience that cannot be avoided is suffering, which poses challenging questions for many regarding the nature of God, the purpose of life, and the place of faith in hardship. Christians often struggle with suffering, questioning why a kind, loving, powerful and omnipotent God allows His children to go through agony
According to what the Bible says, pain has a purpose. It can be a potent tool for spiritual development and transformation. In Romans 5:3–4, Paul, who underwent significant suffering, writes, “We also glory in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Suffering does not mean our lives are meaningless; rather, it strengthens our determination, fortifies our character, and makes us more like Christ. Suffering is never presented in Scripture as pointless. Rather, it is frequently portrayed as a tool for character development, spiritual advancement, and a closer bond with God. Consider it pure joy” when they face trials because these trials test their faith and produce endurance (James 1:2-3)
The fact that Christian pain links us to Christ’s suffering is among its most deep qualities. The Son of God, Jesus, went through the agony, betrayal, and death on the cross associated with human suffering. He carried out God’s redemptive plan out of love for humanity, not because He deserved it. We are reminded that Christ experienced pain as well not just in a general sense, but in the most intimate, profound way possible. We become closer to Jesus by suffering because we participate in His death and, eventually, His resurrection.

Christian Faith is rooted in redemption. The same God who has triumphed over human resistance throughout the world has also put into action a divine plan for its restoration.
The greatest comfort in Christian Suffering is knowing that we are never alone. God is not aloof or unaffected by our suffering. Scripture says that He is “close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
How can we forget about Job who lost his family, his health, and his money, enduring unimaginable misery. Job cried out to God during his struggle, never losing sight of God’s presence even if he did not always understand why he was suffering.
Even while God did not provide answers to all of Job’s questions, He did show Job His majesty, strength.

Peter another example, who encourages his believers to be prepared to defend their hope (1 Peter 3:15). We can show the joy and peace that come from putting our faith in Christ by how we respond to hardship.
Let’s consider real life stories of Nick Vujicic, who was born without arms or legs as a result of a disorder known as tetra-amelia syndrome. He had severe despair and bullying as a child, and he even considered taking his own life. But in the end, he came to know Christ, and even with his physical difficulties, he had hope and a purpose.
Nick says ‘’just because I don’t understand God’s plan, does not mean that he’s not with me. He frequently highlights how God uses his weakness as a platform to show off His strength, inspiring others to believe in God’s plan even in the face of their inability to understand their suffering. Even though suffering can be unpleasant, it can also result in a stronger faith, more confidence in God, and the ability to significantly influence the lives of others.
Let us ask ourselves these questions:
Have you ever thought that your life is in the hands of the One who created the earth and the heavens?
Do you think that He is unaware of your suffering or that He is unable to use it for your benefit?
Is it conceivable that God is calling you to give up your burdens to Him midst of your tribulations, believing that His ways are greater than ours?
We can hope that things will change from here on out even while we suffer. God promises to wipe away every tear from our eyes on judgment day (Revelation 21:4), ending our suffering.
Psalms 23:”Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Trust in God’s protection and presence even in life’s darkest, most threatening moments. It reminds believers that God’s guidance and comfort are present even in the face of fear or death.

Christeena Gladson

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