When Life Hurts: Finding God’s Purpose in Suffering

Have you ever been in a place where life feels like one setback after another? The prayers seem unanswered, and the weight of it all makes you wonder where God is. Suffering can leave us feeling isolated, uncertain, and questioning.

But the truth is, we’re not alone in our pain. Suffering is a reality of life, but Scripture reminds us that it is not without purpose. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

This doesn’t mean every hardship will feel good or make sense in the moment. But it does promise that God is working—shaping, redeeming, and using even the hardest moments for His purposes.

Why Does Suffering Exist?

Suffering entered the world through sin, breaking the perfect design God intended for creation. Genesis 3 shows how Adam and Eve’s disobedience brought pain, hardship, and separation into the human story.

But God’s response wasn’t to leave us in despair. Instead, through Jesus Christ, He began the work of redeeming all things. Romans 8:20-21 tells us, “For the creation was subjected to frustration... in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of God’s children.”

Even more, Jesus Himself faced unimaginable suffering on the cross—not only physical pain but also the weight of humanity's sin. His suffering reminds us that God is not distant from our pain but walks with us through it.

How Does God Use Suffering?

1. To Draw Us Closer to Him:
   In moments of hardship, we often turn to God more deeply than we would in times of ease. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Suffering can become a doorway to intimacy with Him.

2. To Shape Our Character:
   Trials are opportunities for growth. James 1:2-4 encourages us: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

3. To Reveal His Glory:
   Think of Joseph’s story in Genesis. Sold into slavery and unjustly imprisoned, Joseph declared in the end, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). God uses even the most painful circumstances to display His power and fulfill His plans.

4. Through the Holy Spirit’s Comfort:
   In our weakest moments, the Holy Spirit is our helper and comforter. Romans 8:26 reminds us, “The Spirit helps us in our weakness... the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” When words fail, God’s Spirit sustains us.

Practical Ways to Trust God in Suffering

1. Lean Into Prayer:
   Talk to God honestly about your pain. He invites you to pour out your heart, and He promises to listen.

2. Anchor Yourself in Scripture:
   God’s Word is a source of strength. Reflect on promises like Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”

3. Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance:
   The Holy Spirit provides comfort and wisdom, helping you navigate even the most challenging circumstances.

4. Lean on Community:
   God often uses others to carry us through hard times. Don’t isolate yourself—reach out to trusted friends, your church, or a small group for support.

5. Trust God’s Sovereignty:
   Remember that God’s perspective is eternal. Even when we can’t see the full picture, we can trust that He is working all things for good.

What burden are you carrying today that you need to surrender to God? Write down a promise from Scripture that speaks to your situation, and place it somewhere you’ll see it this week.

Lord, when life feels overwhelming, help me to remember that You are near. Teach me to trust in Your promises, to rest in Your strength, and to find peace in Your presence. Thank You for being our refuge and strength, even in the hardest moments. Amen.