What Does God Say About Suffering?

What does God say about our pain and suffering? Here are some of my favorite Bible verses about undergoing hardship.

Suffering is Temporary

Romans 8:18

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”

2 Corinthians 4:17

“This light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.”

Suffering Makes Us Stronger

Romans 5:3–5

“We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope—and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”

James 1:2–4

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

God Sustains Us in Our Suffering

Psalm 34:19

“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.”

John 16:33

“I [Jesus] have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

1 Peter 5:10

“After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

The Future is Bright

Revelation 21:4

“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

Romans 8:28

“We know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

James 1:12

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

Final Thoughts

While suffering is painful, it comforts me to know that it serves a greater purpose. It strengthens me, draws me closer to God, and ultimately leads to eternal joy. No matter what you’re going through, hold on to these promises—because God is with you, and He will see you through.