Why Do We Suffer?

Perhaps this could be considered the most asked question throughout human history. Why do we suffer? This question is based upon something even more difficult to answer.

To many minds the origin of sin and the reason for its existence are a source of great perplexity. They see the work of evil, with its terrible results of woe and desolation, and they question how all this can exist under the sovereignty of One who is infinite in wisdom, in power, and in love. *1

The reality is that no one can answer that question. Our minds just do not have the capability to cover this topic.

Here is a mystery of which they find no explanation. And in their uncertainty and doubt they are blinded to truths plainly revealed in God's word and essential to salvation. There are those who, in their inquiries concerning the existence of sin, endeavor to search into that which God has never revealed; hence they find no solution of their difficulties; and such as are actuated by a disposition to doubt and cavil seize upon this as an excuse for rejecting the words of Holy Writ. *1

Sin is like a cancer that begins to destroy the body of a human being. Its origin may be unknown and the objective in determining its origin is to develop a cure and maybe even prevent other from getting it. But if someone has this terrible disease they need not know anything more than its consequences and any possible treatments that are available.

Similarly, we know what the consequence of sin is, death. But, "the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Unfortunately, this life is full of pain and suffering. Some face greater difficulties than others. The enemy uses these moments to make us lose hope, to tear us away from God, to make us doubt.

But all that can be exercised at this moment of pain and suffering is faith. Faith of a better future, faith that soon we will be in the heavenly mansions, faith that a place awaits is where there will be no more tears, suffering or pain, where death never enter. That is why Jesus came.

The whole universe will have become witnesses to the nature and results of sin. And its utter extermination, which in the beginning would have brought fear to angels and dishonor to God, will now vindicate His love and establish His honor before the universe of beings who delight to do His will, and in whose heart is His law. Never will evil again be manifest. Says the word of God: "Affliction shall not rise up the second time." Nahum 1:9. The law of God, which Satan has reproached as the yoke of bondage, will be honored as the law of liberty. A tested and proved creation will never again be turned from allegiance to Him whose character has been fully manifested before them as fathomless love and infinite wisdom.*1

If you ask someone who has a fatal disease if they would be willing to turn their life around in order to obtain a cure they would probably say yes. God asks us now if we are willing to change our lives so that we may be cleansed from sin and receive eternal life. What will you answer?

Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. John 1:29.

But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18.

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1 * The Great Controversy, "29. The Origin Of Evil ", Elena G. White