Floyd Godfrey, PhDDr. Floyd Godfrey
In the journey of faith, there may come times when suffering feels overwhelming, leaving us with questions that seemingly have no answers. From illnesses to unexpected tragedies, the "why" behind suffering is often elusive, yet Scripture encourages believers to stand firm. Luke Simmons, in his sermon on suffering, offers a valuable perspective: “Satan is on a leash. He only goes as far as God allows him to go” (Simmons & Troutt, 2024). This reminder speaks to a comforting truth—that God maintains sovereignty, even in the darkest hours of our lives. When faced with senseless suffering, it’s crucial to lean into our faith, knowing that God is with us and has set limits to our pain, even if we don’t understand His reasons.
Seeking God in the Depths of Suffering
In moments of deep suffering, it can feel as though everything else is stripped away. Relationships, daily routines, and even our sense of purpose can fade, leaving us seemingly alone in our pain. Simmons encourages, “In deep suffering, all you have is God. Stay connected to God” (Simmons & Troutt, 2024). Here, we are called to nurture our relationship with God, especially when life’s circumstances seem unbearable. For pastors and church leaders, guiding others through these seasons often means gently reminding them of the eternal hope we have in Christ. By fostering an environment where individuals can connect with God amid their suffering, the church provides an anchor in the storms of life.
The Bible is filled with examples of people who clung to God through severe trials. Job, for instance, endured tremendous loss, yet he maintained his integrity before God. His story challenges us with the question: “Can you love God despite your circumstances?” Like Job, we may wrestle with doubts, but choosing to love and trust God despite our circumstances aligns us with His ultimate purpose.
Accepting Suffering Without Blame
As believers, we often search for reasons to explain our suffering. It’s common to wonder if hardship is a form of punishment or a result of personal failings. This inclination, however, can lead to misplaced blame. Seth Troutt observes, “People often look for a reason why we are suffering—that it was our own fault” (Simmons & Troutt, 2024). It’s crucial for church leaders to help congregants understand that suffering does not always stem from personal sin or failure. The Bible reminds us that rain falls on the just and the unjust alike (Matthew 5:45). Our pain might be incomprehensible and feel unjust, but it is not always a consequence of our actions.
Instead of focusing on blame, the church can guide people to embrace the mystery of suffering while trusting in God’s goodness. Jesus Himself was no stranger to suffering, yet He endured it to fulfill God’s purpose. By pointing to Christ’s example, pastors can help people view their struggles through a redemptive lens.
Bearing the Weight of Hidden Pain
For many, suffering is an internal battle they carry privately while continuing to engage with the world. As Troutt poignantly states, “Sometimes you grieve and suffer, then you have to go on and interact with the world as if everything is normal” (Simmons & Troutt, 2024). The church can be a sanctuary where individuals feel free to share their burdens without fear of judgment or the need to wear a facade. By offering empathy and understanding, we validate their experiences and create a safe space where healing can begin.
Encouragement for Those Suffering
In these difficult moments, we may not have the answers, but we do have God’s presence. Scripture assures us, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). Pastors and church leaders are in a unique position to model God’s compassion and provide encouragement, reminding others that, even in pain, they are never alone.
In the end, suffering, though often senseless from our perspective, can be a means of deepening our reliance on God. May we find the strength to endure and the faith to trust that God’s purposes, though mysterious, are ultimately for our good.
Floyd Godfrey PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed counselor for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.
References
Simmons, L., & Troutt, S. (2024, November). The Suffering of Job. Ironwood Church - Sermon Series. Mesa; Arizona.
