SufferingSýnishorn

When life gets dark and pain presses in, we often ask: Where is God in this? It’s a natural question—but one that invites us into a deeper trust. Understanding God's ways doesn't remove the suffering, but it gives us hope within it.

First, we anchor ourselves in this truth: God is ultimately in control. From beginning to end, Scripture paints Him as sovereign over all. When life feels chaotic, this foundation steadies us.

Second, we remember that God works in everything for our good (Romans 8:28). Not ease, but purpose. Even when it doesn’t make sense, He’s shaping something eternal in us.

Even evil is not outside His grasp. The enemy is on a leash—God’s authority even extends over Satan. Revelation reminds us: his defeat is certain. And when people wrong us, we can still say, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20, ESV). Nothing is wasted in God’s hands.

In our storms, remembering His faithfulness is the fourth key. The Israelites were called to recall how God delivered them—because remembering past faith fuels present trust. Has He carried you before? He’ll do it again.

Paul also teaches us to see differently: not just with our eyes, but with faith. Our afflictions are light and momentary compared to the “eternal weight of glory” being worked in us (2 Corinthians 4:17–18). There’s always more going on than we see.

We may not always understand, but we can always trust. God has a plan. Whether He’s refining us, exposing dependencies, or preparing us for something greater—He is working.

Painful discipline is still love. Hebrews 12:11 reminds us it "yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness." And often, it’s only later we see what God was doing. We may say, “I wouldn’t want to go through it again—but I’m glad I did.”

And finally, some suffering will never make sense this side of eternity. But even there, God is with us. He strengthens, comforts, and invites us to see through His eyes.

So, stand. Not in your strength, but in His. And remember: the light often shines brightest in the dark.