Why Do Good People Suffer? Finding Strength in Faith

Why Do Good People Suffer Finding Strength in Faith

Life can feel unfair at times. We’ve all seen it happen—someone who lives with kindness and integrity goes through unimaginable pain and suffering. It’s only natural to ask, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” While this question may not have a straightforward answer, viewing it from a faith-driven perspective can offer some comfort.

Trust Over Understanding

Pastor Warren emphasizes that explanations won’t necessarily ease the pain of suffering. Instead, he advises that what people truly need during times of hardship is resilience. “You don’t need to understand why; you need strength. You don’t need answers; you need comfort and a Savior,” Warren insists. He candidly admits that, after years of reflection, he still doesn’t know why certain hardships occur—and he’s come to terms with never knowing the full extent of God’s plans.

Warren reminds us that some things are simply beyond human understanding. He points to Proverbs 25:2, which reads, “It is God’s privilege to conceal things.” According to Warren, this verse signifies that part of the journey of faith involves trusting God’s wisdom, even when we don’t have all the answers. Sometimes, God withholds explanations, not to punish us, but to encourage us to grow in faith, relying on trust rather than reason.

Suffering in Silence: Trust in God’s Plan

Warren argues that human attempts to understand divine actions often lead to prolonged suffering. He encourages people to shift focus from questioning “why” to placing their trust in God’s greater, incomprehensible plan. This reframing allows individuals to move past the grief and confusion that often accompany hardship. Warren suggests that we may never fully understand suffering until we leave this world, and by then, the reasons will seem clear.

His teachings reflect a broader perspective that faith, rather than intellectual understanding, is the key to enduring life’s trials. While Warren’s insights are comforting to many, it can be hard for individuals to accept the notion that they may never know why they suffer. However, he reassures his followers that this understanding will come in due time, once they are united with God.

Perspective from Pope Francis

Interestingly, Pope Francis has also weighed in on this topic, offering another religious perspective on why good things seem to happen to bad people. He has observed that many unjust individuals appear to thrive, living lives of ease while those who strive to be righteous face overwhelming challenges. Pope Francis points to Psalm 1, which describes the blessings of those who follow God’s path and the emptiness of the lives of the wicked. In his view, although wicked individuals may appear successful on Earth, their names will not be recorded in God’s book. Only adjectives such as “evil” or “deceitful” will remain, while those who walk the righteous path carry the name of Jesus.

Practical Steps for Coping with Suffering

Here are a few faith-based strategies that can help during tough times:

  1. Turn to Prayer
    Prayer offers a way to connect with God and find inner peace. Even when we don’t understand why something is happening, praying for strength and comfort can ease the emotional burden.
  2. Lean on Your Community
    Being part of a faith community is invaluable during challenging times. Whether it’s friends from church or a supportive family, sharing your struggles can help lighten the load. As Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens.”
  3. Shift Your Focus from ‘Why’ to ‘How’
    Instead of asking “Why me?” Try asking “How can I grow from this?” This mindset shift helps you focus on moving forward with faith, rather than getting stuck on questions without answers.

If you’re facing suffering or hardship, know that you’re not alone. Take time to reflect, connect with others, and find strength in your faith. Share your own story or listen to others who have walked a similar path. By trusting in God’s plan and leaning on your community, you can find the resilience to keep going.