Walking Through the Valley
Suffering hits us hard and often without warning: a sudden diagnosis, the death of a loved one, or a betrayal that shatters trust. In those moments, the age-old question arises: Why does a good and loving God allow pain in our lives? This struggle can test our faith deeply, but the Bible doesn’t shy away from it. Instead, it offers real hope and comfort amid the hurt.
Take Job, for example, who lost his family, health, and wealth in a series of tragedies. He questioned God intensely, yet declared in Job 13:15, “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him.” The Psalms are filled with raw lament, as seen in Psalm 22’s cry of feeling forsaken, which Jesus Himself echoed on the cross. These passages demonstrate that suffering isn’t always a punishment for sin; rather, it is a part of living in a broken world affected by evil and free will. But God promises to use it for good, refining us and drawing us closer to Him.
When walking through suffering, lean on God by pouring out your grief in honest prayer. Don’t hold back the anger or confusion – He can handle it, as seen in the Psalms. Surround yourself with community; isolation makes pain worse. Romans 12:15 calls believers to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep, so let others support you. Serving others in their pain can also shift your perspective and bring purpose to your own trials.
Eternal hope is a powerful anchor in suffering. 2 Corinthians 4:17 reminds us that our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. I’ve navigated deep grief myself after losing a family member unexpectedly. In the darkest days, clinging to Revelation 21:4 – about God wiping away every tear and making all things new – brought glimpses of comfort and reminded me that this life isn’t the end.
If you’re in the valley right now, know that God is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). He doesn’t always remove the pain immediately, but He walks with you through it, as promised in Isaiah 43:2: when you pass through the waters, He will be with you. Trust His presence, seek His peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7), and allow suffering to refine your faith. Over time, you’ll emerge stronger, with a testimony that can encourage others. Hold on – the valley won’t last forever, but God’s love will.