What is God’s Purpose in Pain?

Many of us hate pain.  Actually, I’ve yet to meet someone who loves pain.  Even as a runner, I guarantee most do not like the painful part of working out. There have been a couple times I have almost passed out because of too much pain.  Some throw-up, some have anxiety attacks; the reactions vary from person to person.  Have you ever shook your fist at God and said, “Why did you create pain?”  I have.

But, let’s forget for a minute about figuring out WHY God created pain and instead ask, WHAT can I do with this pain?

As runners, pain just comes with the process.  At some point you’re going to experience pain.  It’s inevitable.  It comes with the territory.

First let’s start with a few possible lessons we can learn from pain. 

1. Pain can be a sign something is wrong and needs fixed or healed
2. Pain can be encouragement to know you are making gains in your fitness if used correctly
3. Pain can teach us patience and tolerance
4. Pain can help us learn to deal with difficult situations
5. Pain can make us more grateful

Now, let’s see what God says about pain and what we can to do with it.

• Revelation 21:4 promises us that there is no pain in heaven. “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”
• Psalms 147:3 says, “He healeth the broken heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” So we can be sure that God doesn’t like us to be in pain or broken for ever because He wants to heal us.
• God wants us to comfort others, so He comforts us through our pain, that way we can relate with their sufferings. “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” -2 Corinthians 1:3-4
• When pain is present it could be considered a tribulation because of what it teaches us if we change our perspective. “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” – Romans 5:3-5

God created us each differently and knows each of our individual needs.  Because of this, it’s possible that you and I could have the same injury, but learn completely different things.  Therefore, we each need to go to God and ask, “What do you want me to learn through this pain?”  This can be physical or spiritual pain. 

So what is God’s purpose in pain?  I have noticed in my own life that He ultimately uses it to draw my attention back to Him, but it could be completely different for you, so I encourage you to get on your knees before God and ask Him.

I love you and am praying for you; have a great week.  And don’t be afraid to get in contact with us, we would love to chat with you.  Happy Running!