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EVIL & SUFFERING

The Bible offers various perspectives on the issues of evil and suffering, providing insight into why these exist and how we, as believers, should approach them. While suffering and evil are not easy to understand, the Bible helps us grasp some of the deeper purposes behind them.

The Reality of Evil and Suffering:

From the very beginning of creation, the Bible acknowledges the presence of evil and suffering in the world. In Genesis, we see how sin entered the world through Adam and Eve’s disobedience, bringing with it pain, suffering, and death (Genesis 3:16-19). Evil is not part of God's original design but entered because of human free will and the fall of mankind. This fall had consequences not just for humanity, but for all of creation.

The Impact of Free Will:

The Bible teaches that God created humans with free will. This means we have the ability to choose between good and evil, which brings with it the possibility of suffering. As a result, humans often choose evil, leading to suffering, pain, and brokenness in the world (Deuteronomy 30:19-20). This free will, while a gift, is also the source of much of the evil and suffering we experience. However, God does not force us to love or follow Him; rather, He invites us to choose life and righteousness.

God’s Sovereignty Over Evil and Suffering:

Even though evil and suffering exist in the world, the Bible assures us that God is sovereign and in control over everything. He is not the author of evil but can use it for His purposes (Romans 8:28). For example, in the book of Job, we see that even though Job suffers greatly, God ultimately has a purpose and plan, and Job’s faith is strengthened as a result. The story of Joseph in Genesis (50:20) further shows how God can bring good out of evil circumstances, as Joseph’s suffering led to the salvation of many during a time of famine.

The Role of Suffering in Spiritual Growth:

Suffering can serve as a tool for growth, both in our faith and character. The Bible teaches that suffering produces endurance, character, and hope. In Romans 5:3-5, it says, “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.” James 1:2-4 also emphasizes that trials and suffering can help us mature and become more like Christ.

Jesus’ Suffering and Compassion:

In the New Testament, we see that God Himself, in the person of Jesus Christ, entered into the human experience of suffering. Jesus faced rejection, pain, and death, yet through His suffering, He redeemed the world. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us that Jesus can empathize with our struggles because He Himself experienced suffering. The ultimate purpose of His suffering was to bring salvation and eternal life to all who believe. Through Jesus' sacrifice, God offers comfort and hope for those who suffer (Isaiah 53:3-5, 1 Peter 2:24).

Eternal Perspective and Hope:

The Bible teaches that the suffering we experience in this life is temporary compared to the eternal glory that awaits believers. In 2 Corinthians 4:17, Paul writes, “For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” The ultimate answer to suffering is found in the hope of resurrection and eternal life, where God will wipe away all tears and there will be no more death or pain (Revelation 21:4). This perspective helps believers endure hardship with hope.

The Promise of Comfort:

The Bible assures us that God is near to the brokenhearted and those who suffer. In Psalm 34:18, it says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul writes, “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort others.” God offers His comfort to those who are hurting, and as believers, we are called to extend that comfort to others.

The Future Elimination of Evil and Suffering:

The Bible assures believers that one day, God will eliminate all evil and suffering. Revelation 21:1-4 speaks of a new heaven and new earth where God will dwell with His people, and there will be no more death, sorrow, or pain. Evil will be finally defeated, and justice will prevail.

The Bible acknowledges the reality of evil and suffering, but it also gives believers hope in God’s sovereignty, the redemptive power of suffering, and the ultimate victory over evil. While we may not always understand the reasons behind our suffering, God offers comfort, compassion, and the promise of eternal glory to those who trust in Him. Through Jesus’ suffering, He has made a way for us to find redemption and healing, and He promises that one day, suffering will be no more.

God’s Heart on Evil & Suffering

Evil and suffering are painful realities in the world, and they often lead people to question God's goodness and justice. However, Scripture reveals that God is sovereign, just, and compassionate, even in the midst of suffering. He has a purpose and plan to ultimately redeem all things for His glory and our good.

Why? “Why did this person do this?”

“Why did this horrible tragedy take place?”

“Why didn’t anyone do anything prevent this?"

All of these questions ultimately lead to the issue: “Why does God permit such evil to exist in the world?”

God Did Not Create Evil, But He Allows Free Will

God is holy and perfect, and He does not cause evil. However, He gave humans free will—the ability to choose good or evil. The presence of evil is a result of humanity’s choice to rebel against God.

Deuteronomy 32:4 – “He is the Rock, His works are perfect, and all His ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is He.”

Genesis 2:16-17 – God gave Adam and Eve the choice to obey or disobey. Their decision to sin introduced suffering into the world.

Evil and Suffering Exist Because of a Fallen World

The brokenness we see today—pain, sickness, death, and natural disasters—are consequences of sin entering the world.

Romans 5:12 – “Sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.”

Romans 8:22 – “We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.”

God Uses Suffering for His Greater Purpose

Though suffering is painful, God can use it to strengthen our faith, draw us closer to Him, and accomplish His purposes.

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

James 1:2-3 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

Even when we do not understand suffering, we can trust that God sees the bigger picture and is working for our eternal good.

God Feels Our Pain and Cares Deeply

God is not distant from our suffering—He is compassionate and present in our pain. Jesus Himself experienced suffering, rejection, and death so that He could fully relate to us.

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

Hebrews 4:15 – “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet He did not sin.”

Evil Will Be Defeated, and God Will Bring Justice

Evil and suffering are temporary. God has promised to one day bring complete justice and put an end to all pain, suffering, and sin.

Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Romans 12:19 – “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

Our Hope in Christ Overcomes Evil

Even in a world filled with suffering, we have hope through Jesus Christ. He has already defeated sin and death through His resurrection, and He offers eternal life to all who trust in Him.

John 16:33 – “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

1 John 4:4 – “The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

Trusting God in the Midst of Suffering

While we may not always understand why suffering happens, we can trust in God’s love, justice, and ultimate plan for redemption. Evil and pain will not have the final say—God will.

“The Lord is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (Psalm 91:2)

God’s Word provides guidance, encouragement, and assurance that we can overcome evil and suffering through faith in Him. Here are key Bible verses that speak to victory over darkness and finding strength in times of hardship:

God’s Sovereignty Over Evil and Suffering

  • Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
  • Genesis 50:20 – “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
  • Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Trusting God Through Suffering

  • 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 – “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
  • Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
  • 1 Peter 5:10 – “And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”

Overcoming Evil with Good

  • Romans 12:21 – “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
  • Matthew 5:44 – “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
  • Proverbs 20:22 – “Do not say, ‘I’ll pay you back for this wrong!’ Wait for the Lord, and He will avenge you.”

God’s Justice and Deliverance

  • Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
  • Romans 12:19 – “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
  • Psalm 37:7-9 – “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.”

Strength to Endure Hardship

  • Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.”
  • James 1:2-3 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
  • 2 Timothy 4:18 – “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen.”

Jesus Has Overcome the World

  • John 16:33 – “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
  • 1 John 4:4 – “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”
  • Revelation 12:11 – “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”

Encouragement

No matter the evil or suffering you face, God is with you. His Word reminds us that He is sovereign, just, and victorious. Evil will not have the final say—God will.

Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

How God Uses Suffering for Our Good

Suffering is a difficult reality of life, but the Bible teaches that God can use our trials to shape us, strengthen our faith, and accomplish His greater purposes. Here’s how God works through suffering for our good:

Suffering Draws Us Closer to God

Hardship can deepen our dependence on God, reminding us that He is our ultimate source of strength and comfort.

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

2 Corinthians 1:9 – “Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.”

Suffering Matures and Refines Us

Just as fire refines gold, suffering purifies our hearts and helps us grow spiritually.

James 1:2-4 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Romans 5:3-5 – “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

Suffering Helps Us Comfort Others

The pain we endure equips us to minister to others who are struggling.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Suffering Teaches Us to Rely on God’s Strength

When we are weak, God’s power is revealed in us.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 – “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Suffering Reminds Us This World Is Not Our Home

Trials remind us that our ultimate hope is in eternity with Christ.

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 – “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

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

Suffering Can Lead to Redemption and Transformation

God specializes in bringing beauty from ashes and turning brokenness into purpose.

Genesis 50:20 – “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

Suffering Helps Us Share in Christ’s Suffering

As believers, our suffering unites us with Jesus, who suffered on our behalf.

Philippians 3:10 – “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death.”

1 Peter 4:12-13 – “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.”

Encouragement

Suffering is not meaningless in God’s hands. While pain is hard to endure, we can trust that God is working through it for His glory and our good. He walks with us through every trial and promises to one day wipe away every tear.

Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Hold on to hope—God is using your suffering to shape you, draw you closer to Him, and prepare you for an eternal glory beyond comparison.

Key Scriptures on Evil and Suffering:

On Evil:

  • Genesis 3:6-7 – "When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths."
    This passage shows the origin of evil entering the world through disobedience to God.

  • Romans 12:9 – "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good."
    A call to believers to actively hate evil and pursue good.

  • James 1:13-15 – "When tempted, no one should say, 'God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death."
    Sin and evil are birthed from within when one gives in to temptation.

  • Psalm 34:14 – "Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it."
    A call to turn away from evil and pursue peace.

On Suffering:

  • Romans 8:18 – "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
    A reminder that suffering in this life is temporary and pales in comparison to the glory that awaits believers.

  • 2 Corinthians 4:17 – "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."
    Suffering produces eternal rewards.

  • Isaiah 53:3-5 – "He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces, he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed."
    A prophecy about Jesus' suffering and how His pain provides healing for us.

  • Psalm 34:18 – "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
    God is near to those who suffer, offering comfort and salvation.

  • 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."
    God comforts us in our suffering so that we can extend that comfort to others.

  • 1 Peter 5:10 – "And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast."
    Suffering is temporary, and God promises to restore us after we endure.

  • Revelation 21:4 – "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
    A promise of a future where all suffering and evil will be gone.

These scriptures offer insight into the biblical understanding of evil and suffering, while also providing hope for those who struggle with these difficult realities.

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