Proverbs 3:21–35
Suffering—it’s something none of us can escape. As my mom used to say, “just keep on living, and you’ll see.”
I read a story once about a young boy who broke his back at just one year old. He spent 13 of his 17 years in and out of hospitals. When asked in church if he thought that was fair, he simply said, “God has all of eternity to make it up to me.” That stopped me in my tracks. What faith!
The truth is, suffering was never part of God’s original design. Back in Genesis, creation was whole, perfect, and good. Pain and brokenness only entered the world after sin. But here’s the hope: suffering won’t last forever. Revelation promises us a new heaven and a new earth where there will be no more crying, no more pain, no more suffering. God is setting everything right again.
God gave us a choice and the freedom to love or not to love. God loves us. We need the freedom because love is not love if it is forced. Love can only be real love if it is a choice. So much suffering is caused by us choosing not to love God or to love others. We know this from Psalm 16:4 “ those who run after other gods will suffer more and more”.
Why Do We Suffer?
We wrestle with the big “why” when life hurts. But Scripture shows us three very real reasons suffering creeps in:
- Straying from God – Like the sheep that wandered off, when we drift from God’s covering, we leave ourselves open to sin and pain. But praise God—He never stops searching for us (v.14).
- The sins of others – Sometimes suffering comes from what other people do, whether on a global scale or in our personal lives. That’s why Jesus gives us a clear model for reconciliation and forgiveness. Violence, revenge, and rage don’t heal—they destroy.
- Unforgiveness – This one is huge. Bitterness rots us from the inside out. It’s like drinking poison and hoping the other person gets sick. But Jesus tells us to forgive seventy-seven times (Matt. 18:22). Forgiveness is proof that we truly understand God’s forgiveness toward us.
Forgiven People Forgive
I know—it’s hard. Forgiveness doesn’t excuse the hurt or pretend it never happened. It’s choosing to release someone even though you know exactly what they did. And that’s powerful.
When I think about Jesus on the cross—suffering, bleeding, and still saying, “Father, forgive them”—I’m reminded that my daily decision to forgive is a reflection of the forgiveness I’ve received.
Unforgiveness doesn’t just harm relationships; it keeps us from the fullness of God’s peace. But when we let go, when we show mercy, we mirror God’s limitless love.
The Eternal Perspective
Romans 8:18 reminds us: “Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Whatever you’re walking through right now, it isn’t the end of the story. God has eternity in His hands, and His love and forgiveness never run out.
So, here’s the encouragement:
- Don’t pick battles that aren’t yours—take them to God first.
- Don’t let bitterness take root—choose forgiveness.
- Don’t lose hope—God’s plan is bigger than your pain.
Because with God, not only is restoration possible, but He also promises you will recover all.
Now it’s time to show Him that praise is still what we do in His name. My praise party song today is Recover All by Joliz Records. You will love this one.
Reflection Question:
Where in your life are you holding onto unforgiveness, and how might releasing it open the door for God’s peace and restoration?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your endless love and forgiveness. Lord, help me to recognize the areas in my life where bitterness or unforgiveness may have taken root. Teach me to forgive as You forgive—to release pain and extend grace, even when it feels hard. Strengthen me through the Holy Spirit so I can see suffering not as the end, but as an opportunity to grow in character, hope, and faith. Thank You for the promise that You will work all things together for good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.