3 Reasons Why God Allows Suffering

Suffering. It’s one of the most difficult things we face in life. And if we’re being honest, it often leaves us with some heavy questions.

Why does God allow pain? Why do bad things happen to good people? Where is God when I’m hurting?

I’ve asked those questions myself—many times. In moments of grief, loss, sickness, or confusion, I’ve looked up and said, “God, why?”

Read our blog on 3 reasons why baptism is important or reasons for divorce in the bible

And yet, over time, I’ve come to see that suffering is not always what it seems. It hurts. It stretches. But it can also shape. Grow. Even heal.

Let’s walk through 3 reasons why God allows suffering—not to simplify pain, but to seek purpose through it.

✦ Suffering Isn’t Always Punishment

Before anything else, it’s important to understand this: suffering is not always a result of personal sin.

Yes, we live in a broken world. Yes, choices have consequences. But many times, pain is part of life in a fallen world—not a personal penalty.

So instead of asking, “Why me?”, sometimes the better question is:

“What can I learn through this?”

1. Suffering Draws Us Closer to God

When life is smooth, we often forget our need for God. But when we’re hurting, when things fall apart—that’s when we run to Him.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

I’ve seen this in my own life. My most desperate prayers came in my darkest moments. And strangely enough, I often felt closest to God in the middle of my pain.

Suffering strips away the noise. It gets to the heart. It reminds us that we need a Savior—not just comfort.

2. Suffering Refines Our Character

Pain changes us. That’s not just a poetic idea—it’s a reality.

Through trials, we grow. We develop patience, humility, empathy, and faith.

“Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” – Romans 5:3-4

Some of the most compassionate people I’ve met are those who’ve walked through deep sorrow. They get it. They’ve been there. And because of that, they carry wisdom and love that can’t be taught in comfort.

So the second of the 3 reasons why God allows suffering is this: to shape who we become.

3. Suffering Prepares Us for Eternal Glory

This life isn’t the end. But when we’re hurting, it can feel like the pain will last forever.

God promises that what we endure now is temporary—and it cannot compare to the joy that’s coming.

“Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” – Romans 8:18

This is hard to grasp when you’re in the thick of pain. But heaven is real. Redemption is coming. God sees the full picture—even when we don’t.

Suffering reminds us that this world is not our home. It shifts our eyes toward eternity.

So, What Are the 3 Reasons Why God Allows Suffering?

Let’s clearly answer the question:

“3 reasons why God allows suffering”

Answer:

1. To draw us closer to Him – creating dependence and deeper faith
2. To refine our character – producing strength and compassion
3. To prepare us for eternal glory – reminding us of what’s to come

Suffering Has Purpose, Even If We Don’t See It

Does that mean suffering always makes sense? No. Sometimes the pain feels unbearable. Sometimes the silence feels cruel.

But through the questions, I’ve learned this: God doesn’t waste pain.

He works through it. He transforms hearts. He brings beauty from ashes.

So if you’re asking why, know that you’re not alone. You’re seen. You’re loved. And in time, God may reveal how your pain had a greater purpose than you ever imagined.