Suffering

Scripture tells us of God’s faithfulness, love and healing. Stories unfold telling of Jesus’ miracles. He healed disease, restored vision and returned life after death. But what about the prayers that seem to go unanswered; times when healing did not come; tragedy was not averted? — What then?

Scripture also provides stories of suffering. The disciple, James, brother of John was put to death, yet Peter was miraculously saved (Acts 12:1-10). John the Baptist was beheaded (Matt 14:1-12). The book of Job tells of Job’s unimaginable losses.

There is much we don’t, can’t and never will understand. Life is not fair. Life is hard. Brutal events shatter the heart and mind. We may find ourselves crying out, “God, where are you in this??”

Some individuals stand firm in their faith during difficult suffering. With fist-clenching resolution they stand on their faith trusting that God is in charge, God is good, God has his reasons, and we are often not going to comprehend reason for tragedy. I greatly admire such wise and mature faith.

Others, though Christian with a solid faith in God, may struggle differently.

I confess that when confronted with what was for me, inconceivable suffering, I faltered in my faith. I still believed in Christ as my Savior, but I was consumed by anger that God would allow such tragedy. I also discovered that staying angry and blaming God only leads to a deep dark place, from which it only becomes more and more difficult to rise out of.

Eight years later… why did the tragedy happen? I don’t know. Why did God allow it? I don’t know.

But I do know this: God is the Creator, I am not; God is perfect and Holy, I am not; God knows all things, I do not. We live in a fallen world and bad things do happen to good people. Will bad things happen tomorrow? Maybe.

We are God’s beloved children. He does love us. He loves us so much that he sent his only son to die on the cross for us, to cleanse us of sin and to allow us eternity in heaven with Him. Therefore, as children are to respect, honor and obey their parents regardless of understanding or agreement with a parent’s decision, we too must respect, honor and obey our God no matter the circumstances.

And one day, further along in our journey, we will find relief and rest from our grieving. We will probably still lack understanding, but we will discover solace in the unanswered questions. And our faithful submission to God in the midst of suffering, will be pleasing to our Lord.

Lord God, we confess that we have thought more of ourselves than we should. Who are we to question you and doubt your purposes? Who are we to think we know what is best? Please forgive us our inflated egos.

Lord, in times of suffering, help us to bow down before you in faithful submission. Though tears flow and our hearts break, may we remain before you humble children in awe and respect of you. And when/if we fail, choosing anger instead, help us to see our error and repent, turning back to you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.