Has tragedy left you questioning God’s goodness?
Are you wrestling with pain that seems to have no purpose?
Do you find yourself asking, “If God loves me, why is this happening?”
These aren’t small questions.
They strike at the very heart of faith.
We’ve all experienced moments when suffering seems to contradict everything we believe about a loving God.
A cancer diagnosis.
A child born with disabilities.
A natural disaster that destroys homes and lives.
The betrayal of someone we trusted.
In these moments, theology that once seemed solid can suddenly feel paper-thin.
Yet even in our darkest hours, God isn’t distant or silent.
There are no easy answers, but there are meaningful ones.
Do you have more questions?
Did you have more questions or are you wanting to grow in your faith?
Get in Touch
Suffering in a Broken World
First, we need to recognize that suffering wasn’t part of God’s original design.
When God created the world, He called it “very good” (Genesis 1:31).
Pain entered our reality when humanity chose independence from God.
We now live in what theologians call a “fallen world”—a creation groaning under the weight of brokenness (Romans 8:22).
This doesn’t mean every instance of suffering is directly caused by someone’s sin.
Jesus specifically rejected this oversimplification (John 9:1-3).
Rather, we experience the ripple effects of living in a world where natural laws operate consistently.
The same gravity that keeps us grounded can cause a fatal fall.
The same free will that allows for love also permits hatred.
God’s decision to give us freedom and consistent natural laws means that suffering is possible.
This isn’t divine negligence—it’s the necessary cost of a world where love and freedom exist.
God Suffers With Us
Perhaps the most profound truth of Christianity is that God doesn’t observe our pain from a distance.
In Jesus, God entered our suffering firsthand.
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses” (Hebrews 4:15).
Christ experienced betrayal, physical torture, spiritual anguish, and death itself.
When you weep, remember—Jesus wept too (John 11:35).
The cross stands as eternal evidence that God would rather suffer with us than remain distant from us.
Like a parent who would gladly take their child’s pain if they could, God demonstrates a love that enters into our darkest moments.
This doesn’t explain away suffering, but it transforms it from meaningless tragedy into a place where we can encounter God’s presence in profound ways.
Need Prayer?
Life can be overwhelming, which is why many turn to prayer—a simple conversation with God—for strength, hope, and peace. The Bible reminds us that prayer is powerful and meaningful. Whatever you're facing, we’d be honored to pray for you or your loved ones. You're not alone, and we’re here to partner with you in prayer.
Request Prayer
How Suffering Can Transform Us
While God doesn’t cause suffering, He can redeem it.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Romans 8:28).
This promise doesn’t mean all things are good—but that God can work good through all things.
Pain often accomplishes what comfort cannot:
1. Suffering Deepens Compassion
Our wounds become windows through which we see others more clearly.
After experiencing grief, we recognize it instantly in someone else’s eyes.
Our pain equips us to comfort others “with the comfort we ourselves receive from God” (2 Corinthians 1:4).
Consider joining a support group where your experience might help someone else navigate similar pain.
2. Suffering Reveals What Matters
Nothing clarifies priorities like pain.
Suddenly, petty concerns fade, and we see with startling clarity what truly matters.
Many cancer survivors describe their diagnosis as a brutal gift that taught them to value each day.
Try this exercise: Write down what your current suffering has taught you to appreciate that you once took for granted.
3. Suffering Deepens Our Relationship With God
C.S. Lewis observed that “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains.”
Pain often drives us to a deeper intimacy with God than we would have otherwise experienced.
Start a journal documenting both your honest questions and the moments you sense God’s presence in unexpected ways.
Find Community
We all have a deep need for connection, but building meaningful relationships isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve created welcoming spaces where you can meet new people and build authentic community. No matter where you are in your faith journey, you’re invited to explore, grow, and belong here.
Get Connected
Frequently Asked Questions
Is God punishing me through my suffering?
While Scripture shows that sometimes consequences follow choices, Jesus clearly taught that suffering isn’t always punishment (John 9:1-3). God’s posture toward you is love, not retribution.
Why doesn’t God just eliminate all suffering?
To eliminate all suffering, God would need to remove either free will or natural laws—essentially creating a different kind of existence altogether. One day He will restore all things (Revelation 21:4), but until then, He works within our broken world.
How can I maintain faith when suffering seems senseless?
Faith isn’t denial of pain but trust in God’s character even when circumstances seem to contradict it. Bring your honest questions to God—the Psalms show that lament is a form of worship.
How do I respond to someone else’s suffering?
Presence matters more than explanations. Job’s friends helped most before they started talking. Listen, serve practical needs, and avoid simplistic explanations that minimize their pain.
Walking Together Through Pain
Wherever you are in your journey with suffering, you’re not alone.
God walks with you, and we want to walk with you too.
And your pain, though real and significant, doesn’t have the final word.
There is hope, even here.
There is meaning, even now.
And there is a God who doesn’t just explain suffering, but enters it with you.
Get Connected
If you want to learn more, have questions, need prayer, or want to get in touch with our church — simply fill out the form below to connect!
"*" indicates required fields
