Let’s be real—most of us are doing everything we can to avoid pain. Whether it’s ghosting people who trigger us, curating the “perfect” life on social media, or diving into self-help content to “heal,” we’re constantly trying to escape anything that feels like suffering. But what if I told you that suffering is not a detour in your Christian walk—it’s part of the path?
Yeah, I know. Not the message we usually hear in a culture that’s heavy on manifestation, self-care, and cutting people off for “peace.” But the truth is, suffering isn’t just something to survive—it’s something God uses to shape us.
The Uncomfortable Truth: Christians Are Called to Suffer
Somewhere along the way, we’ve been sold the idea that walking with God guarantees a pain-free, success-filled life. And when we experience heartbreak, disappointment, or delay, we start wondering, “Did I do something wrong?”
But here’s the thing: Jesus didn’t avoid suffering. He embraced it.
“In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 (NIV)
Notice Jesus didn’t say you might have trouble—He said you will. Following Him doesn’t exempt us from pain; it equips us to endure it with hope.
My Story: When the Wilderness Hit Different
I’ll never forget the year 2020 when everything I had planned fell apart. I had just stepped into a new season of ministry, my career was finally gaining traction, and life felt good. Then—out of nowhere—relationships started breaking down, I got laid off, finances got tight, I had a miscarriage and I found myself in a deep emotional and spiritual drought. I questioned everything: my calling, my purpose, and honestly… even God.
But in that lonely season, I discovered something I would have never learned in comfort: God doesn’t waste our pain.
He used that season to strip away my pride, my need for control, and my obsession with getting things right. It wasn’t pretty—but it was powerful.
“But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” – Job 23:10 (NIV)
Like Job, I was being refined, not rejected.
Why God Allows Suffering
Let’s break it down. Here are a few reasons why God doesn’t shield us from suffering:
- To Make Us Empathetic
Your struggle might be the very thing someone else needs to hear. 2 Corinthians 1:4 says God comforts us so we can comfort others. - To Build Endurance
Just like physical muscles grow through resistance, our spiritual strength grows through trials. Romans 5:3-4 says suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope. - To Draw Us Closer to Him
Nothing brings you to your knees faster than pain. It’s in the suffering that we learn to lean on God, not just for what He gives, but for who He is. - To Shape Our Character
God is more concerned with our character than our comfort. Suffering exposes what’s in our hearts and creates space for transformation.
How to Embrace Suffering (Without Losing Your Mind or Faith)
Okay, so now we know suffering is a part of the deal. But how do we endure it well?
- Stop Comparing Your Journey
Instagram lies. Just because someone else’s life looks like it’s all blessings and glow-ups doesn’t mean they’re not battling in private. Run your race. - Let God Handle the “Why”
You may never get all the answers this side of heaven. And that’s okay. Trust His character even when you can’t trace His hand. - Surround Yourself With Real Community
Not the “positive vibes only” crew—but people who will pray with you, cry with you, and remind you of truth when your faith is shaky. (Galatians 6:2) - Journal Your Journey
Write it out. The pain, the prayers, the revelations. One day, you’ll look back and see that even in the silence, God was speaking. - Pray Raw Prayers
God can handle your frustration. He’s not intimidated by your honesty. David did it all the time in the Psalms. So go ahead—cry out, ask questions, and be real.
In the End…
Suffering isn’t pretty. It won’t always make sense. But it will always have a purpose. So, no—you’re not cursed. You’re not forgotten. You’re not being punished. You’re being refined. And like gold in the fire, you’re coming out stronger, more radiant, and more grounded in your faith. So stop wishing away the struggle. Lean into it with Jesus. He never promised it would be easy—but He did promise He’d be with you through it all.
“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” – Psalm 23:4
Let’s Talk…
Have you ever experienced a season of suffering that brought you closer to God? Share your story in the comments or send me a message. Your testimony could be someone else’s breakthrough.
Amoy is intent on fulfilling God’s will and purpose for her life. She is a celebrity publicist, a proud Jamaican, a writer, an international speaker, a media practitioner and a published author. She loves all things luxury and is on a mission to become one of the wealthiest women from her island and in the world. 40 under 40, is that you?