It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I might learn thy statutes. Psalm 119:71
Pain and suffering are something we all prefer not to think about, something we would rather avoid. The thought of pain deters many whether in others or in life around them; life to them is something more precious to be distorted by pain. Pain however challenges our dependence on created things and opens our eyes clearly to see the necessity of depending upon a loving God, the one who has promised to minister to our everyday needs. Suffering brings a perspective to life that can be gained in no other way. We become more aware of our frailty as human beings when we suffer from situations that cause us deep pain or sorrow.
Yes, we view life with increased sensitivity and depth when we are faced with hardship and struggle. We need afflictions just as a soldier needs training so that he may be better enabled to obtain victory in future battles. Sorrow is as necessary for the soul as medicine is for the body. Sadly, when affliction strikes, we often spend too much time thinking about ourselves. Caught up in self-pity, we become resentful of the misfortune that has befallen us.
We may even complain to God himself for letting us experience pain or discomfort. It would be better to recognize the benefits of our suffering so that we can take on the attitude of the psalmist when he said, “It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I might learn thy statutes.” (Psalm 119:71). Doing this will not only give us a fresh view of God but it will also help us understand the feelings of others who suffer. Are you going through pain and suffering right now?
God is inviting you to learn through your suffering. Pain makes us think; thinking makes us wise; wisdom makes life profitable. However, wisdom does not just come from suffering, but suffering reflected upon, accepted, and assimilated.
Reflection by Bekone Paul SJ