EVIL AND SUFFERING IN A WORLD OF A GOOD AND SOVEREIGN GOD: A PASTORAL REFLECTION

Abstract

In almost every area of thought, certain answers and perspectives are perfectly adequate for some purposes, but inadequate for others. It is an obvious fact that the world is trapped in a dilemma caused by the regular reoccurrences of tragic events; as well as unjustified suffering of the innocent in the world created and governed by an all good, all knowing, sovereign God. The problem of evil and suffering has threatened the faith of many Christians about the real nature of God. Thus man is left with no other option than questioning the goodness and sovereignty of God. Using historical and comparative methods of research and primary and secondary sources of data collection, the research discovered that the problem of evil and suffering are ill-wind that blows no one good. They constantly wreck serious havoc capable of challenging the faith of many in either believing God or discarding any knowledge of His existence. It recommended that Christians should examine themselves before blaming God for their predicaments. Some of our behaviors results to suffering. People should be enlightened on the inevitability and universality of suffering as God’s instrument for character building. Christian leaders and pastors should be grounded with the Biblical position on suffering so as to know the best method to assist those undergoing the storms of life.