The Bigger Picture: Why do we suffer?

After my breakdown in 2012 I have spent the past few years researching the concept of suffering from a Christian Worldview. To be honest I found very few books that seemed to have a balanced perspective on this topic.

Last month I read a book by Richard Winter called When Life Goes Dark: Finding Hope in the Midst of Depression. I would highly suggest this book to anyone. When he gets to a section on suffering he had a list of 5 reasons why we suffer. To be honest this was the best perspective I have found. Again for people reading this is from a Christian Worldview or perspective. He talks about looking at the bigger picture in why we suffer.

1. We are caught up in a fallen world and deeply affected by it

2. We live with the affects of others sins

3. Our own sinful nature

4. We are also told that “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world” Eph. 6:12

5. God’s Discipline

As Christians we can then use our stories for HIS Kingdom and HIS Glory.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28