CHAPTER EIGHT: WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?

WHEN disasters strike, destroying property and claiming lives, many cannot understand why  such terrible things happen. Others are troubled by the extent, cruelty, and wantonness of crime and violence. You too may have wondered, 'Why does God permit suffering?'

Because they have found no satisfactory answer to this question, many have lost faith in God.  They feel that he is not interested in mankind. Others who accept suffering as a fact of life become embittered and blame God for all the evil in human society.  If you have had such feelings,, doubtless you will be very interested in the Bible's statements on these matters. 

SUFFERING NOT FROM GOD

The Bible assures us that that the suffering we see around us is not caused by Jehovah God. For instance, the Christian disciple James wrote:  "When under trial, let no one say: 'I am being tried by God.'  For with evil things God cannot be tried nor does he himself try anyone."  (James 1:13)  That being so, God could not have caused the numerous hardships plaguing mankind. He does not bring trials upon people to make them suffer for evil deeds they supposedly committed in a past life. -Romans 6:7. 

In addition, even though many terrible things have been done in the name of God or of Christ, there is nothing in the Bible to suggest that either of them has ever approved of such actions.  God and Christ have nothing to do with those who claim to serve them but who cheat and swindle, kill and plunder, and do may other things that cause human suffering. In fact, "the way of the wicked one is something detestable to Jehovah."  God "is far away from the wicked ones." -Proverbs 15:9, 29. 

The Bible describes Jehovah as being "very tender in affection and merciful."  (James 5:11) It proclaims that "Jehovah is a lover of justice."  (Psalm 37:28; Isaiah 61:8)  He is not vindictive. He compassionately cares for his creatures and gives all of them what is best for their well-being.  (Acts 14:16, 17) Jehovah has done that from the very origin of life on the earth.  

Next time: CHAPTER EIGHT: WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?/A PERFECT BEGINNING

From the book: KNOWLEDGE  That Leads to Everlasting Life