SufferingSýnishorn

If God is sovereign and loving, why would He allow suffering? This question has echoed through time—but Scripture shows us that God’s sovereignty and our suffering are not in conflict. In fact, they’re woven together in His redemptive plan.

Romans 8 brings clarity to this tension. It reminds us first of our identity: we are God’s adopted children who can cry, “Abba! Father!” (Romans 8:15). But then Paul adds, we are heirs with Christ— if we’re willing to suffer with Him (v.17). That’s a hard truth: suffering is part of the journey.

But it’s not the end of the story. Paul assures us, “The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed” (Romans 8:18, ESV). Our pain is real, but so is the promise of eternal glory.

And then, the verse many cling to: “All things work together for good to those who love God” (Romans 8:28, NKJV). This isn’t about life always turning out comfortable—it’s about God redeeming everything, including the pain, to shape us into the image of Christ. That’s the “good” He’s after.

The rest of Romans 8 lays out a beautiful chain: foreknown, predestined, called, justified, glorified. You are part of a story God began long before your first trial—and He will finish it.

So how do we live this out?

• Remember your identity as God’s child. You can cry out to Him. He listens.
• Reframe your suffering as part of God’s shaping work. It’s not meaningless.
• Cling to hope. Eternal glory outweighs momentary pain.
• Trust His plan, even when you don’t understand it.
• Let Him define “good.” It’s less about ease, more about Christlikeness.
• Know you're not alone. The Spirit intercedes when words fail (Romans 8:26).

Nothing—nothing—can separate you from His love (Romans 8:38–39). Even in your hardest moments, you are held. Let that anchor you. Let it lead you through the fire, straight into His glory.