Does God allow hardships?

B. A. Manakala

You have allowed me to suffer much hardship, but you will restore me to life again and lift me up from the depths of the earth. (Ps 71:20 nlt)

I know a couple who has a special needs child. Initially they had several questions and it was a struggle for them to take care of the child. But gradually they learned well to care for the child. Eventually, they started a school for such children with special needs. Now they care for hundreds of such children!

God may allow certain hardships in our lives to achieve His purposes in our lives in a certain manner. This does not mean God can achieve His plans only through hardships. God could have guided the couple above to start such a school even without giving them a special child. But God decided to give them a special child to equip them to care for hundreds of children. Couldn’t God save humanity without allowing Jesus to suffer on the cross? The scripture has a number of mentions about possible suffering in our lives (2 Timothy 4:5; 1 Peter 5:9-10). But the next verse in the Psalm talks about restoration, greater honour and comfort after the suffering also (Ps. 71:21).

What is my response when I go through suffering?

Suffering is not necessary, but it can equip us better than otherwise.

Prayer: Lord, let me find out your purpose when you allow hardships. Amen


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