And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God,
to those who are called according to His purpose.
(Romans 8:28)
Most people think of pain and suffering as the worst experiences God has allowed or sent into the human race. Before we make these kinds of judgments, we need to think scripturally about pain and suffering. If you could not feel pain you would never know when you injure yourself, or when teeth were decaying, or when a heart attack was imminent. Without pain we would be in constant peril.
Through the incomprehensible pain and suffering of the cross, the Lord redeemed His people and paid their sin debt. Without the pain and suffering of Christ there would be no hope of redemption.
Still there is another thought; God uses pain and suffering in the lives of His children to correct them and mold them into the image of Christ. Like a loving father He works in our lives with patience and love; removing and correcting that which is corrupted by sin, thus bringing about good for us and glory for Himself.
So, how should we react to pain and suffering? James gives us an answer; “Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4)
Be careful how you complain about God’s instrument of pain.
“He laid his glory by,
And dreadful pains endured;
That rebels, such as you and I,
From wrath might be secured.
“Upon the cross He died,
Our debt of sin to pay;
The blood and water from His side
Wash guilt and filth away.”
–John Newton