Faith When Life Is Hard: God Understands Your Pain

Faith

It’s hard to have faith when life is hard, but something I’ve been comforted by over the years is the realization that God understands my pain.

Whether my pain is from the consequences of my own actions or something completely beyond my control, God loves me and will not abandon me.

God Understands Weakness

In one of his letters to the churches, the Apostle Paul says something amazing:

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” - Hebrews 4:15-16

God understands our weaknesses and has experienced them in his own way. He knows the pain our struggles cause us, no matter if we’re a new believer or have been building our faith for years. This means we can feel more confident reaching out to Him for help, without being overwhelmed by shame or guilt.

Even the people you admire most in life have undergone some immense struggles. God forgives us for so much, and the pain our weaknesses cause us doesn’t have to last forever.

God Understands Sadness

When His friend Lazarus died, Jesus wept for him, even though He planned to raise Lazarus from the dead (John 11:35). God understands our sadness. He made you, including your feelings.

And you don’t have to hide anything from God or put on a brave face. You can be yourself and share your sadness with Him. He will help you through it.

It can be hard to connect with God during a really difficult time. But it is always possible. Something as simple as focusing on Him, saying a brief prayer, or writing a letter to Him may help. He knows your heart, and cares about what you’re facing right now.

God Is Love

We hear it all the time: God is love (1 John 4:8). But what does it mean? I think one of the most powerful meanings of this teaching lies in how God puts people in our lives to show us His love and kindness, even when we are struggling in our faith or have given up belief in Him.

No matter how hard things get, or where you are in your faith, there are people who love you, care about you, and want to help you get through this painful time in your life. This could be a parent, a longtime friend, or a new acquaintance. Even the smallest gestures of kindness can be great reminders that we’re loved.

If you feel like you have no one to turn to right now, don’t despair or give up. Talk to a HopeCoach at TheHopeLine whenever you need a listening ear. We can help you find greater hope and encouragement during this difficult time. We are here for you, and we want you to know there is always hope.

Dawson McAllister
Dawson McAllister, also known as America's youth pastor, was an author, radio host, speaker, and founder of TheHopeLine. McAllister attended Bethel College in Minnesota for undergraduate work where he graduated in 1968, began graduate studies at Talbot School of Theology in California, and received an honorary doctorate from Biola University.
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3 comments on “Faith When Life Is Hard: God Understands Your Pain”

  1. I do not know where to begin. I have been a follower of Jesus for a long time. No time have I ever felt God was not. However, I have doubted his love for me. I sound ignorant for I know his word says otherwise. I have been angry at God for not answering prayers that I have prayed for others. Now the outcome has hurt so many people. Including myself. Something I have no control. I am raising 4 grandchildren and feel too old, incompetent and outdated. Me and my husband are semi retired. I quit my job to care for a 3,6 7, and 13 yr olds. The kids need us. We want to keep them safe and our selfish side wants our freedom.
    Why oh why did God not answer my prayers for their parents to get it together????
    We go to court for permanent guardianship on the 6th of October. Pray for us.

    1. Dear Norma, It is normal to feel this way in your situation. You are an angel for raising your 4 grandchildren and we understand the burden that must be at your age. At a time you thought you could enjoy your retirement, you now have to raise your grandchildren. Talking about it does help. Please feel free to chat with one of our Hope Coaches at https://www.thehopeline.com/gethelp/. A Hope Coach will listen, encourage and help you through this. We are praying for you and your family. We also have a site that you can post your prayer request and a prayer champion will pray for you at https://www.theprayerzone.com/.

  2. I cannot tolerate lack of compassion. Perhaps it's true that it's never recommended that we be angry at God. But too many folks suffer hurt and pain for you to use the words "immature" ,& "ignorance". You need to choose your words carefully.

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