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Why Do I Suffer?: Suffering & the Sovereignty of God
Why does God allow suffering? It’s a question that, in one form or another rears its head time and again. Whether it comes from someone who has just lost a loved one, been diagnosed with an incurable illness or even just surveyed the plight of the poor in the third world. A few days after the terrorist attacks of 9/11 the question that was being asked around the world was – Where was God in this? John Currid brings Biblical teaching to bear. God does work in suffering, he is not a worried observer unwilling or unable to intervene, rather he has a purpose at work and is in control.
144 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2004
12 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
John D. Currid
39 books14 followersDr. Currid has been part of the RTS Faculty for 20 years, serving as both Chair of the Biblical Studies Division in Jackson and Professor of Old Testament in Charlotte. Prior to coming to RTS, he served as Associate Professor of Religion at Grove City College. He is currently an adjunct faculty member at the Jerusalem Center for Biblical Studies in Jerusalem, Israel. Dr. Currid serves as Project Director of the Bethsaida Excavations Project in Israel (1995-present). He lectures and preaches in many countries including Russia, Ukraine, Great Britain, Australia, and Brazil.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 16, 2023
Deals accurately, eloquently, pastorally, and concisely with the theological aspects of suffering, without ignoring practical considerations. Very direct in its warnings, and in its emphasis that we are not here to be comfortable, but to serve a higher calling. Many helpful examples.
July 30, 2017
A short, compelling primer on the role of suffering in the life of Christians and non-Christians. Solid, biblical perspective that challenged my view of God's role and purposes in our suffering.
December 21, 2019
Why Do I Suffer? is a good introduction to what the Bible says about suffering, written from a Reformed perspective. Dr. Currid makes it clear from the outset that his intention is not to speculate beyond what Scripture teaches, but simply to present "what has been revealed to us by God in his Scriptures regarding the topic of suffering" (p. 10).
The all-encompassing theme of this book, which is the subject of the first section, is the sovereignty of God. Suffering and calamity do not happen by chance or without purpose, but are always under God's control, as Scripture clearly teaches (Isaiah 45:6-7). This presents the issue that this book seeks to answer: If a good God is in control of both well-being and calamity, why do people suffer?
In the second and third sections of this book, Currid delineates reasons that Scripture gives both for the suffering of believers (for solace in God, discipline, imitation of Christ's suffering, and perseverance) and for the suffering of unbelievers (as forewarning or condemnation).
The final section, which I found to be the most compelling and the most pastoral, is an exhortation to Christians to take a biblical attitude toward persecution and suffering -- indeed to rejoice in it (James 1:2), knowing that "after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you" (1 Peter 5:10).
The strength of this book is that it is thoroughly rooted in Scripture. While it may not be the first book I would recommend to someone in the midst of suffering (as it tends to state things rather bluntly), I believe it is a good book for Christians to read in order to begin forming a biblical perspective of suffering.
The all-encompassing theme of this book, which is the subject of the first section, is the sovereignty of God. Suffering and calamity do not happen by chance or without purpose, but are always under God's control, as Scripture clearly teaches (Isaiah 45:6-7). This presents the issue that this book seeks to answer: If a good God is in control of both well-being and calamity, why do people suffer?
In the second and third sections of this book, Currid delineates reasons that Scripture gives both for the suffering of believers (for solace in God, discipline, imitation of Christ's suffering, and perseverance) and for the suffering of unbelievers (as forewarning or condemnation).
The final section, which I found to be the most compelling and the most pastoral, is an exhortation to Christians to take a biblical attitude toward persecution and suffering -- indeed to rejoice in it (James 1:2), knowing that "after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you" (1 Peter 5:10).
The strength of this book is that it is thoroughly rooted in Scripture. While it may not be the first book I would recommend to someone in the midst of suffering (as it tends to state things rather bluntly), I believe it is a good book for Christians to read in order to begin forming a biblical perspective of suffering.
January 25, 2015
There is arguably no more significant issue outside of salvation that garners the great discussion than the debate on suffering and the sovereignty of God. The question is often posed as to if God is so powerful and loving, where is there evil and suffering in the world. As believers, we are called to be able to respond to such questions. While it is perhaps somewhat outside out finite understanding to grasp all of God’s ways and purposes, we are not left without guidance regarding suffering and the sovereignty of God. John Currid in his helpful book Why Do I Suffer?: Suffering and the Sovereignty of God takes a look at what Scripture has to say regarding this important issue.
Currid divides his book into four sections with the first dealing with God and calamity, the second part discussing why Christians suffer, the third part engaging why unbelievers endure hardship, and the final section providing salient words regarding what we should do when suffering and hard times come our way. As Currid rightly notes in the preface, “There is a great mystery to human suffering.” Theologians, philosophers, and humanity in general have long pondered why trouble takes place. Is it the act of the gods in response to the disobedience of their worshipers and thus should these entities be appeased to bring an end to suffering? Is God incapable of dealing with suffering, is He simply taking a hands off approach, or is suffering a part of the current construct as we move towards a place of restoration and redemption?
There are some who aver bad things happen due to random chance. Currid rightly rejects such a notion, stating that if that perception were true, “chaos is a powerful force that exists and acts independently of God.” For the believer, that approach is untenable, especially since Scripture declares God as being Creator and sustaining all that takes place in the universe. There is nothing outside His divine control. Currid responds to the idea of chance by affirming the biblical doctrine of God’s sovereignty. He aptly comments, “The Bible depicts that everything that happens in heaven and on earth occurs because of God’s decree, will, and purpose” and this includes what we term and view as suffering.
This brings into play then the paradoxical relationship that seems to exist between God’s sovereignty and the responsibility man has for the entrance and continued sin in the world. How can both co-exist? Currid approaches this important question by digging right into Scripture, admitting the mystery that surrounds such a doctrine, yet also noting the reality that God is sovereign and man is responsible for sin. An important theological term called God’s permissive will or decree is key to this issue. Currid elaborates as to what that principle is all about, rightly noting “God is not the author or originator of sin and its subsequent suffering. Yet, God has foreordained them because he has foreordained whatsoever comes to pass…thus, sin and suffering do not exist apart from divine control and purpose.” Such statements may cause one’s head to spin, but Currid further explains what his statements means in the remainder of the book as he discusses why suffering happens to believers and unbelievers.
Building on the necessary foundation of God’s sovereignty as demonstrated in Scripture, Currid provides the reader with some excellent discussion on why believers and unbelievers suffer. Since God is sovereign, there must be a reason why bad things happen. Currid rightly explains that suffering brings the believer to their knees in prayer. Scripture is full of examples of the righteous being afflicted and turning to God. The suffering was not always lifted as seen for instance in the case of Job; however, the fervent prayers of a righteous man avail much with that availing usually resulting in a closer relationship with God.
Times of affliction should also drive the believer to the pages of Scripture. Currid saliently notes, “When in trouble, the Christian retires to the Scriptures. He reads it, ponders it, and indeed struggles with it.” Suffering also presents the reality that things are not as they should be and thus times of trial help the believer focus on the day when all things are made new. Currid also notes that suffering brings humility, discipline, instruction, restoration, and refinement towards a place where we become more like Christ. God often uses times of suffering to refine His people.
Unbelievers also endure times of suffering. Currid provides a number of reasons why God uses suffering in the life of the unbeliever. These include what is essentially a wake-up call. Such events are noted in a number of great men of the faith to include John Newton and Robert Murray McCheyne. Currid provides a quick examination of those men’s lives and how God used a time of suffering to woo them to Him. At some point, unbelievers will endure eternal, everlasting suffering due to their unbelief. I was pleased to see Currid affirm the biblical doctrine of everlasting punishment.
I think the most helpful portion of this book is the final section where Currid provides the reader with how to approach times of suffering. He rightly notes that as believers, we should actually expect suffering. He states, “God’s Word tells us that those who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be a target of afflictions and will suffer more greatly than most people.” I fully appreciated Currid’s statement that “Present pain and suffering are nothing compared to the glory that Crist has bought and secured for us in heaven.” When we endure trials, we can rest assured God is in control, things are taking place for a purpose, and death, sin, and suffering will one day be eternally dealt with.
I highly recommend this book to all believers. It is replete with sound biblical exegesis and Currid does an excellent job of affirming God’s sovereignty and noting the reasons Scripture gives as to why suffering occurs. Those desiring to develop a solid theodicy or responses to this issue will find Currid’s treatment of the subject quite helpful.
I received this book for free from Christian Focus Publications for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Currid divides his book into four sections with the first dealing with God and calamity, the second part discussing why Christians suffer, the third part engaging why unbelievers endure hardship, and the final section providing salient words regarding what we should do when suffering and hard times come our way. As Currid rightly notes in the preface, “There is a great mystery to human suffering.” Theologians, philosophers, and humanity in general have long pondered why trouble takes place. Is it the act of the gods in response to the disobedience of their worshipers and thus should these entities be appeased to bring an end to suffering? Is God incapable of dealing with suffering, is He simply taking a hands off approach, or is suffering a part of the current construct as we move towards a place of restoration and redemption?
There are some who aver bad things happen due to random chance. Currid rightly rejects such a notion, stating that if that perception were true, “chaos is a powerful force that exists and acts independently of God.” For the believer, that approach is untenable, especially since Scripture declares God as being Creator and sustaining all that takes place in the universe. There is nothing outside His divine control. Currid responds to the idea of chance by affirming the biblical doctrine of God’s sovereignty. He aptly comments, “The Bible depicts that everything that happens in heaven and on earth occurs because of God’s decree, will, and purpose” and this includes what we term and view as suffering.
This brings into play then the paradoxical relationship that seems to exist between God’s sovereignty and the responsibility man has for the entrance and continued sin in the world. How can both co-exist? Currid approaches this important question by digging right into Scripture, admitting the mystery that surrounds such a doctrine, yet also noting the reality that God is sovereign and man is responsible for sin. An important theological term called God’s permissive will or decree is key to this issue. Currid elaborates as to what that principle is all about, rightly noting “God is not the author or originator of sin and its subsequent suffering. Yet, God has foreordained them because he has foreordained whatsoever comes to pass…thus, sin and suffering do not exist apart from divine control and purpose.” Such statements may cause one’s head to spin, but Currid further explains what his statements means in the remainder of the book as he discusses why suffering happens to believers and unbelievers.
Building on the necessary foundation of God’s sovereignty as demonstrated in Scripture, Currid provides the reader with some excellent discussion on why believers and unbelievers suffer. Since God is sovereign, there must be a reason why bad things happen. Currid rightly explains that suffering brings the believer to their knees in prayer. Scripture is full of examples of the righteous being afflicted and turning to God. The suffering was not always lifted as seen for instance in the case of Job; however, the fervent prayers of a righteous man avail much with that availing usually resulting in a closer relationship with God.
Times of affliction should also drive the believer to the pages of Scripture. Currid saliently notes, “When in trouble, the Christian retires to the Scriptures. He reads it, ponders it, and indeed struggles with it.” Suffering also presents the reality that things are not as they should be and thus times of trial help the believer focus on the day when all things are made new. Currid also notes that suffering brings humility, discipline, instruction, restoration, and refinement towards a place where we become more like Christ. God often uses times of suffering to refine His people.
Unbelievers also endure times of suffering. Currid provides a number of reasons why God uses suffering in the life of the unbeliever. These include what is essentially a wake-up call. Such events are noted in a number of great men of the faith to include John Newton and Robert Murray McCheyne. Currid provides a quick examination of those men’s lives and how God used a time of suffering to woo them to Him. At some point, unbelievers will endure eternal, everlasting suffering due to their unbelief. I was pleased to see Currid affirm the biblical doctrine of everlasting punishment.
I think the most helpful portion of this book is the final section where Currid provides the reader with how to approach times of suffering. He rightly notes that as believers, we should actually expect suffering. He states, “God’s Word tells us that those who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be a target of afflictions and will suffer more greatly than most people.” I fully appreciated Currid’s statement that “Present pain and suffering are nothing compared to the glory that Crist has bought and secured for us in heaven.” When we endure trials, we can rest assured God is in control, things are taking place for a purpose, and death, sin, and suffering will one day be eternally dealt with.
I highly recommend this book to all believers. It is replete with sound biblical exegesis and Currid does an excellent job of affirming God’s sovereignty and noting the reasons Scripture gives as to why suffering occurs. Those desiring to develop a solid theodicy or responses to this issue will find Currid’s treatment of the subject quite helpful.
I received this book for free from Christian Focus Publications for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 3, 2018
Excellent, simple primer on suffering from biblical perspective. Interspersed with great quotes from Christian teachers and history, and passionately argued. Encouraging work although probably a little basic for some believers of they've thought more on the subject. Ideal for all Christians to read (represents the Reformed and I think right understanding) though but would recommend you read more than this. Great start off point though
June 9, 2019
Good, clear, Biblical take on the purpose and causes of suffering in the world. Dr. Currid writes in the manner of one who is unashamed of the word of God, and yet simultaneously mindful of the weightiness of the topics he is covering.
August 27, 2019
The Question of The Title is Answered
Chris does a good job answering the question of the title from many different angles. He essentially addresses the question different ways (e.g. We suffer to be conformed to the image of Jesus) and defends it from the Bible.
Chris does a good job answering the question of the title from many different angles. He essentially addresses the question different ways (e.g. We suffer to be conformed to the image of Jesus) and defends it from the Bible.
November 30, 2021
Less of a “book” per se, and more a collection of studies on different questions surrounding the Christian and suffering. But still, very helpful and powerful, Scripture-heavy and full of clear truth.
October 9, 2025
A substantive dive into the Christian theology of suffering. How to understand it, rectify it, and deepen our relationships with God through an understanding of his sovereign will for his people and the world.
July 2, 2020
A great commentary on this topic. Chapter 2 is one of the best explanations of sovereign election I’ve ever seen.
May 5, 2021
Provides a helpful perspective on how to approach suffering from a Reformed and biblical worldview.
April 29, 2022
Great content, but kind of a clunky read. Way overuses quotations from other works.
May 22, 2023
3.5
Helpful and short for those wanting answers to the question of suffering. Would recommend if someone wanted an accessible and theologically sound book on this topic
Helpful and short for those wanting answers to the question of suffering. Would recommend if someone wanted an accessible and theologically sound book on this topic
January 30, 2024
Very well-written, highly recommend
January 21, 2013
This little book packs a punch. It briefly but thoroughly explains how our loving and sovereign God works suffering into His plans for the good of His people and the world. Along the way it debunks some popular teachings like: God has no control over catastrophe, He didn't know that evil will happen, and God wants you to be health and wealthy. The whole study is grounded deeply in the Bible, but also has practical application and plenty of historical precedence. Well worth your time and effort to read this excellent and though provoking little book.
March 29, 2017
Great book, it's about sovereignty and charcters of god and suffer, value faith in God. It's very blessing me while reading it.
May 1, 2017
This is a very good book to help understand why suffering exists. It is split between explaining why suffering occurs for believers, as well as for non-believers. I liked how he split these two sections, as there are different reasons.
I felt like the book was a little repetitive at times and could have been condensed a little more. However, it was an encouraging read, especially as a Christian, to get a better understanding of how to live through trials and see how God uses them for your ultimate good.
Would recommend to anyone struggling with trials (all of us??) and anyone wanting to help someone else understand trouble in their life.
I felt like the book was a little repetitive at times and could have been condensed a little more. However, it was an encouraging read, especially as a Christian, to get a better understanding of how to live through trials and see how God uses them for your ultimate good.
Would recommend to anyone struggling with trials (all of us??) and anyone wanting to help someone else understand trouble in their life.
September 9, 2017
Pretty technical and cold. Throughly biblical, but not the book I'd recommend to someone in the midst of suffering.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews