Pain with a Purpose: How God Can Use Suffering to Shape Us

Floyd Rogers

Suffering is not useless. It may feel heavy and difficult, but it can serve a purpose. God may allow pain in our lives, not by accident, but with careful thought. He never gives more than we can handle. He knows exactly when and how to allow it. He can use pain like a tool—like sanding wood, or pruning a tree—removing parts of us that do not reflect His Son, Jesus Christ.

For those who have accepted Jesus as their Saviour, He lives within them. His goal is to shape us so that His life is seen through ours. This shaping process can be uncomfortable, even painful. But through it, God can work to make us more like Christ.

We may not understand why we suffer, but we can trust that God does. Suffering may not be punishment, but God preparing us.

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

Romans 8:28

Understanding God’s Will for Our Lives

Floyd Rogers

God’s desire for each of us is simple. He wants us to live in a way that pleases Him. This means being honest, kind, faithful, and living with integrity. God wants us to become people of strong character, reflecting His goodness in everything we do.

Sometimes, we may begin to drift from His path. In those moments, God knows exactly how to get our attention. He may use difficult situations to stop us and help us reflect on where our choices are leading. If we continue in the wrong direction, we risk missing the good things He has already prepared for us.

Life’s challenges are not without purpose. Can we not infer from Biblical accounts that God allows trials not to punish us, but to help us grow? These moments shape us, teaching us to trust Him more and helping us understand what He wants to change in our hearts.

We should allow the things learned in life to build spiritual maturity. This growth doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, guidance, and sometimes pain. But through it all, He offers hope and direction through His Word.

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

Romans 8:28