Why Suffering?

Recently in our state, a tragic school bus accident occurred that claimed the lives of four children and wounded many others. Much of the attention has been focused on the cause of the accident – the driver who was at fault. Many legal ramifications have surfaced which have dominated the news. The fact that the driver was illegally residing in our country without a valid driver’s license has become quite paramount in the discussions. I noticed, however, a sobering point in this on-going story that has not captured much news.

Hunter (9) and Jesse Javens (13) were laid to rest this week. Their family has suffered horrendous emotional strain. It was overlooked by many, but Mr. & Mrs. Javens previously buried another child who died from a medical condition. Wow! These parents have lost three out of their five children! Hunter was actually buried on what would have been his 10th birthday. He was a twin. His twin sister will forever have her own birthday flooded with excruciating reminders of the death of her brothers, especially Hunter. Another, little reported point . . . the boy’s older brother had been married the previous weekend and was on his honeymoon when the accident occurred. He, of course, cut his honeymoon short and returned so that he and his new bride could be with the family. Every anniversary will forever serve as a reminder of this tragedy!

WHY would God allow this “Job – like” experience? If He is sovereign, and He is, WHY would he cause, or at least allow, this incredible amount of pain to be inflicted on this family, especially these parents? What is He up to?

I would like to submit two reasons straight from the Bible. This is a very complex issue and in this little article I am not attempting to produce an exhaustive tutorial on suffering. I do think these two divinely originated thoughts are worth thinking on, though. They are both clearly found in 2 Corinthians 1:3-7.

#1 – Our sufferings helps us to connect with the suffering of Jesus Christ. Even though our sufferings are of a different nature and intensity, they serve very well to implant a deep appreciation for what He went through on the cross! Of course, even more mind boggling, He suffered on our behalf!

#2 – Our sufferings yield purposeful comfort. Even though our suffering is not removed or eradicated, we nonetheless receive comfort in the midst of our suffering. That comfort, which comes from both God Himself and from others, does help. It gives us a poignant sense of God’s mercy to help us. Remember, we do not deserve comfort. We are sinners. Yet He is so very gracious to pour out comfort in our lives. In addition, the very same comfort that we receive equips us to help others. This is all in His plan. Those who suffer and receive comfort are the best trained to aid others in the midst of their suffering.

Whatever our tragedy – great or small, physical or emotional, permanent or temporary, God is using it for our good, for other’s good, and ultimately for His very own glory!