Why Do Christians Suffer: Unveiling the Purpose Behind Pain

Why Do Christians Suffer?

Suffering is an inevitable part of the Christian life. Jesus Himself warned His followers that they would face trouble in this world (John 16:33). However, Christians have a unique perspective on suffering, and there are several reasons why they may experience it.

1. The Brokenness of the World

One reason why Christians suffer is because they live in a broken and fallen world. When God originally created everything, it was "very good" (Genesis 1:31). However, sin entered the world through Adam's disobedience, and its effects continue to corrupt the world today (Romans 3:23; 6:23; 8:19–23). As a result, both Christians and non-Christians alike experience the difficulties and hardships of life on this broken planet.

2. Non-Conformity to the World

Christians may also suffer because they stand for an uncompromising truth that the world often rejects. Jesus said, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first" (John 15:18). Believers represent the exclusive truth that Jesus Christ is the only way to God (John 14:6), which can be challenging for a world that promotes relativism and tolerance of all beliefs. This rejection can lead to various forms of suffering for Christians.

3. Refinement and Spiritual Growth

One purpose of suffering for Christians is to refine their faith and character. The apostle Peter writes to encourage suffering Christians, saying that their trials test the genuineness of their faith, which is more valuable than gold (1 Peter 1:6-7). Similarly, James tells us to consider it pure joy when we face trials because they produce perseverance, maturity, and completeness in our faith (James 1:2–4). Through suffering, God can use temporary hardships to develop and strengthen His children.

4. Discipline and Correction

Sometimes, suffering can be a form of discipline from God. Just as a loving father disciplines his children, God disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:5–11). This discipline is not meant to harm or punish, but rather to correct and guide His children back onto the right path. It may involve allowing hardships or consequences to help believers readjust their priorities and turn their hearts back to Him.

5. Comforting Others

Christians who have experienced suffering themselves are better equipped to empathize with and comfort others who are suffering. The apostle Paul writes that God comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others with the same comfort we have received from Him (2 Corinthians 1:3–4). When believers go through trials, they can draw on their own experiences to offer support and encouragement to others who are facing similar challenges.

6. Drawing Closer to God

Suffering has a way of stripping away the temporal securities of this world and drawing Christians closer to the Lord. When everything else fails, believers are forced to seek solace, peace, and purpose in God's Word. It is during times of suffering that many Christians experience a deeper intimacy with God as they rely on Him for strength and find comfort in His presence.

7. Longing for Eternity

Suffering also reminds Christians that this world is not their ultimate home. While those in more affluent parts of the world may find it harder to long for heaven, Christians who suffer persecution, poverty, and privation often have a greater desire for eternity. When life is comfortable, the eternal perspective may fade into the background, but suffering can serve as a reminder that our hope lies not in this world but in God's greater plan.

Why This Matters

Understanding why Christians suffer is important because it helps believers navigate the challenges and hardships they encounter in life. By grasping the biblical perspective on suffering, Christians can find comfort, hope, and purpose in the midst of their trials. It also equips them to minister to others who are going through similar difficulties, offering them encouragement and pointing them to the hope found in Christ.

Think About It

1. How does knowing that suffering is a part of the Christian life change your perspective on your own trials and hardships?
2. In what ways can you use your experiences of suffering to comfort and encourage others?
3. How does the knowledge that this world is not our ultimate home impact your priorities and desires?