Question: Why do we suffer?
Answer: We live in a fallen world. God uses it as the sandpaper of discipleship.

Suffering is not an easy topic, especially in a world prioritizing comfort and ease. However, as Christians, we must come to terms with the reality that suffering is not just a possibility in the Christian life—it is a certainty. The Bible does not shy away from this reality, nor should we. Instead of avoiding the discussion, we must embrace a biblical understanding of suffering, learning to endure it with faith, joy, and trust in the Lord.

Let’s explore suffering from a biblical perspective, why we struggle to talk about it, how to ensure our suffering is godly, and how we can embrace it with joy.

What is Biblical Suffering?

In the biblical sense, suffering is the experience of pain, hardship, and trials in a fallen world. Scripture repeatedly teaches that suffering is a normal part of the Christian life:

Jesus warned His followers: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Paul taught that suffering is part of discipleship: “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12)
James encouraged believers to see suffering as a tool for growth: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1:2-3)

Suffering comes in different forms. Some suffering directly results from following Christ (such as persecution). At the same time, other trials come simply because we live in a broken, sin-cursed world (sickness, financial struggles, relational pain). However, in both cases, God can use suffering to refine our faith and deepen our dependence on Him.

Why Do We Run from Talking About Suffering?

Despite the Bible’s clear teaching on suffering, many believers are reluctant to discuss it. Why?

A Culture of Comfort. We live in a society that values convenience, pleasure, and personal happiness. The idea that suffering has any purpose or meaning contradicts the cultural expectation that life should be easy.

A Misunderstanding of the Christian Life. Some believe that following Jesus should lead to a life free of hardship. The prosperity gospel—a false teaching that claims faith should always result in health and wealth—has deceived many into thinking suffering is a sign of spiritual failure.

Fear and Weak Faith. No one enjoys suffering, and many of us fear the pain it brings. Some avoid discussing it because they don’t know how to reconcile a good and loving God with the existence of suffering.

Yet, avoiding the subject doesn’t make it disappear. Instead of running from suffering, we must develop a biblical perspective that helps us endure it well.

Be Careful That Your Suffering is Because of Serving God, Not Sin.

Not all suffering is godly suffering. Sometimes, our hardships directly result from our sin and poor decisions. Peter warns against this:

“If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.” (1 Peter 4:15-16)

Examples of Sinful Suffering vs. Godly Suffering:

If someone loses their job because they were dishonest, that suffering is not godly—it is the result of sin.
If a Christian loses their job because they refused to compromise their faith, that is godly suffering.
If someone experiences broken relationships due to selfishness, pride, or gossip, that is sinful suffering.
If someone experiences relational loss because they boldly share the gospel, that is suffering for Christ.

When suffering comes, we must examine our hearts and ask: Is this trial the result of my faithfulness to God or my own sin? If it is due to sin, we must repent. If it is due to obedience to Christ, we must rejoice that we are counted worthy to suffer for His name (Acts 5:41).

How to Embrace Suffering with Joy and Trust the Lord

The Bible does not just tell us that suffering will happen; it also teaches us how to endure it well.

Recognize That Suffering is Temporary. Paul reminds us: “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” (2 Corinthians 4:17) Our trials, no matter how intense, are temporary. They cannot compare to the glory that awaits us in Christ.

Trust That God is Using It for Good. Romans 8:28 declares: “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." God never wastes our pain. He uses it to refine us, draw us closer to Him, and shape us into the image of Christ.

Keep an Eternal Perspective. Jesus endured the cross “for the joy that was set before Him” (Hebrews 12:2). He knew that suffering was not the end of the story. In the same way, we can face trials with joy when we keep our eyes on eternity.

Action Steps for Anyone Experiencing Suffering

If you are in the middle of suffering right now, here are some practical steps to help you endure it with faith:

1. Seek God in Prayer and Scripture

Pour out your heart to God (Psalm 62:8)
Meditate on His promises (Romans 8:18).

2. Stay Connected to Christian Community

Don’t isolate yourself—lean on fellow believers for encouragement and prayer (Galatians 6:2).
Allow your church family to walk with you through suffering.

3. Examine Your Heart

Ask: Am I suffering for righteousness, or is this the result of my sin?
If needed, repent and seek God’s grace.

4. Choose to Worship in the Middle of Pain

Like Paul and Silas in prison (Acts 16:25), choose to praise God despite your suffering.
Worship keeps your focus on God’s goodness, not your circumstances.

5. Trust That God is Not Done Yet

Remind yourself that suffering has a purpose.
Trust that God will carry you through (Isaiah 41:10).

Bottom Line

Suffering is not something we should fear or avoid discussing. Instead, we should embrace a biblical perspective that helps us endure suffering with faith and joy. Jesus suffered, and He promised that His followers would suffer as well. But He also promised that He would be with us through every trial.

So, if you are suffering today, take heart. You are not alone. God is working in your pain and will see you through to the other side.

“After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” (1 Peter 5:10)