Where Is God in the Midst of Pain?
A Hope-Filled Look at Suffering Through Scripture
Pain is real. But so is God’s grace.
We’ve all felt it—grief, loss, heartache, or the sting of injustice. In moments like these, it’s natural to ask: Why does God allow suffering? Where is He when life hurts?
At Church of Grace, we don’t run from hard questions. Instead, we run toward Jesus—because the Bible offers more than an explanation; it offers hope. Let’s walk together through what Scripture says about pain, where it came from, and how God is still working through it to bring redemption and healing.
Where Did Pain and Suffering Come From?
When God created the world, it was perfect. No death. No disease. No brokenness. In Genesis 1:31, we see God looking at His creation and calling it “very good.”
But then came the fall.
Adam and Eve chose to go their own way instead of trusting God’s, and that one act of rebellion brought sin—and with it, pain and suffering—into our world (Genesis 3). Romans 5:12 puts it like this:
“Just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.”
This wasn’t just about punishment—it was about separation. Humanity stepped out from under God’s covering, and the ripple effects still impact us today. From disease to disaster, everything broken traces back to that first fracture in the garden.
But That’s Not the End of the Story
Even in our brokenness, God didn’t give up on us. He stepped into our suffering through Jesus Christ.
“He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.” – Isaiah 53:3
Jesus didn’t avoid pain—He embraced it. He bore our sorrow, took our sin, and through His resurrection, He defeated death once and for all. As Romans 8:1 reminds us:
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Through Jesus, we’re not just given answers—we’re given a Savior who knows our pain and walks with us through it. He paid the price for our total wholeness and healing.
“Surely he too up our pain and bore our suffering… and by his wounds we are healed.” – Isaiah 53:4-5
So Why Does God Still Allow It?
That’s a fair question. If Jesus has overcome death, why do we still suffer?
Here are a few biblical truths that can help us see the bigger picture:
- Free Will
God loves us enough to let us choose. Love without choice isn’t love—it’s control. Pain often comes from human decisions, but the ability to choose also opens the door for real faith, real growth, and real love (Deuteronomy 30:19). - A Broken World
Creation itself is groaning under the weight of sin (Romans 8:22). Until Jesus returns, we live in the “in-between”—redeemed by grace but still waiting for full restoration. - God’s Greater Purpose
God is able to use suffering to refine us, deepen our faith, and draw us closer to God. Romans 8:28 reminds us:
“In all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” - For His Glory
Sometimes, our pain becomes the platform for God’s power. Just ask the man born blind in John 9. His healing wasn’t just for him—it pointed people to Jesus. It wasn’t that God was behind the blindness – that was the result of the fall – God was behind the gracious act of healing. We serve a great God!
How Do We Walk Through Pain Today?
At Church of Grace, we believe you don’t have to walk through hard seasons alone. Here’s how you can stay anchored in truth and filled with hope:
- Pray Boldly
God invites us to come to Him with everything. Philippians 4:6-7 promises peace that surpasses understanding when we pray with open hearts. We have access to the Throne of Grace where we can receive help in time of need.
“Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you.” Psalm 37:5
- Trust His Heart
Even when we don’t see the full picture, we can trust that He’s leading us. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to lean not on our own understanding. - Lean Into Community
We weren’t meant to carry pain alone. That’s why we value life-giving community—where burdens are shared, and faith is strengthened (Galatians 6:2). - Let Scripture Speak
God’s Word brings comfort, wisdom, and perspective. Start with Psalm 34:18:
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” - Fix Your Eyes on Eternity
This life is not the end. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 reminds us that present troubles are temporary, but glory is forever.
A Future Without Pain Is Coming
The promise of Scripture is clear: there’s a day coming when pain, death, sickness, and tears will be no more.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…” – Revelation 21:4
Heaven isn’t just a vague comfort—it’s the guaranteed restoration of all things. Evil will be defeated. Joy will be complete. And we’ll be with God, forever. Praise God!
Final Encouragement
If you’re in a season of suffering, you’re not alone. Not only is God with you—but we’re here for you too. At Church of Grace, we believe there’s purpose in your pain and hope beyond what you can see right now. We are here for you.
Because of Jesus, pain doesn’t get the final word. Redemption does. Restoration does. Resurrection does.
Let’s walk this journey together—with grace, with hope, and with eyes fixed on the One who makes all things new.
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Yorba Linda