Some well-known religious leaders suggest that sufficient faith ensures protection from hardship and guarantees a wealthy and prosperous life.  However, this theological perspective is inaccurate.  Scripture offers a different perspective on suffering.

In Romans 8:17, Paul writes that Christians will experience suffering.  Early believers, including Paul himself, endured various forms of persecution—social, economic, and physical.  The Christian life does not guarantee prosperity; rather, it promises hardship.

A portion of our suffering stems from the decisions we make.  The pain caused by our mistakes is often the hardest to bear, as it involves regret over things we could have controlled.  Perhaps you understand this, as you may be experiencing hardship due to the natural consequences of your own choices.

Suffering can also be inflicted upon us by others due to their selfishness, negligence, or even malicious and criminal actions.  A prime biblical example of this is Jesus, an innocent man who bore the sins of the world and endured a terrible death.

We are particularly reminded of our human vulnerability when we experience pain that is beyond our control or the control of others.  Sometimes, we confront a devastating diagnosis or a natural disaster and are humbled by our frailty as we endure the consequences of events entirely outside our control.

Understanding suffering that lacks a clear cause can be quite difficult, making it harder to cope and sometimes leading to prolonged anguish.

Suffering is an inherent aspect of the human experience, irrespective of its origin.  Throughout history, pain has been a ubiquitous element of our world.  Brokenness and affliction are integral to the human condition. While this reality might suggest a bleak and disheartening narrative, it is not the definitive conclusion of our existence, nor is it the final chapter of your personal journey.  As you identify and address the detrimental thoughts and behaviours hindering your progress, you can embark on a path toward constructive suffering.