Where is God in Our Suffering?

One of the most common questions people ask is, “Where is God when we suffer?”

I don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I would say this: God doesn’t abandon us in our pain; He’s with us in it.

Hardship makes us feel isolated. From God. From everyone. But we don’t have to search for God in the clouds when we feel alone. He’s right there with us wherever grace and truth are found. He’s in charity work, in shelters, and in religious communities. He’s in hospitals where people hope and pray for good news about their loved ones. He’s wherever justice is served and truth is defended.

God also reveals Himself through prayer, reflection and Bible study. It’s through Scripture that we discover God is intimately acquainted with our pain and sorrow – and that He transforms our struggle into opportunities for growth, resilience, and a closer relationship with Him.

Most importantly, God is found in us. That’s right, in you and me. Human beings don’t always treat each other the way we should, of course, but when we act the way God created us to, good things happen. We love and care for each other. We seek what’s best for our friends, our co-workers, and our neighbors. We give out of our abundance so others can find healing and hope.

Where is God when we suffer? He’s not hidden. He’s right there with us in our pain. It’s in the darkness that God’s light shines on us the brightest.