How can we understand God’s purpose in difficulties? On the Tuesday edition of Live the Promise Susie talks with pastor Bob Russell about the power of God in and over our suffering.

“As a minister for 45 years, I’ve asked that question… if God is all powerful and all loving, why does He permit so much pain? We’ve all had that frustration at times with understanding why God permits so much suffering.”

Bob says we can start with being real. “We live in a fallen world. If you’ve never experienced tragedies that are inexplicable, then you’re rare. God asks us to do two things when we’re suffering. To trust that He is good, and to wait.”

Bob points to the Old Testament story of Joseph. “When he’s being carted down the road by Ishamelites, he had to wonder where is God in all of this? He’s used to favored treatment, now he’s got the low-end jobs… everything seems to be going wrong in his life. Instead of getting bitter, he decides to bloom where he’s planted.”

Bob and Susie walk through six explanations for suffering in the world.

1. Discipline

2. Poor decisions

3. Satanic attack

4. The sins of others

5. Persecution

6. Living in a fallen world

Bob says this hits close to home in his own life but we can remember that God’s deliverance is a promise. “When the sin virus was introduced, the world became chaotic. All of a sudden all of creation was out of sync… we have hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes… one day God will make all things right but right now, we’re in a fallen world. It’s just a reminder that this world is not our home.”

Bob leaves us with these words. “God is developing in us spiritual muscles. When we look back [from heaven], we’re going to say ‘Now I understand.’ Until then, we trust.”

Bob’s book is .

Key Scriptures: Ephesians 3:20-21; Genesis 37-50; John 12:23-25; Hebrews 11

Theme Song: Strong God by Meredith Andrews

Highlight : Learning to steward suffering well

How to suffer well