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Opposing Views On The Relationship Between God And Suffering

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The issue of why God allows suffering has long been the theme of theologians, philosophers, and believers alike. It delves into the complex relationship between a benevolent, all-powerful deity and the existence of pain and suffering in the world While there is no definitive answer, various perspectives shed light on this profound. One viewpoint suggests that suffering serves as a test, shaping individuals' character and fostering spiritual growth. Adversity can lead to virtues such as resilience and compassion, contributing to personal development. From this perspective, suffering has a purpose in the spiritual evolution of individuals. Some theological interpretations propose that suffering is a result of human free will and the presence …show more content…

Various explanations are offered, such as the idea that suffering can lead to virtues like courage and altruism. Certain religious traditions highlight the significance of suffering in divine redemption and salvation, such as Christianity's belief in Jesus Christ's sacrifice for humanity's sins. The question of why God permits suffering is complex and invites contemplation from different angles. It remains a mystery that prompts reflection on the nature of existence, morality, and the divine, challenging individuals to grapple with doubt and uncertainty in the face of profound suffering. The issue of why God allows suffering has long been the theme of theologians, philosophers, and believers alike. It delves into the complex relationship between a benevolent, all-powerful deity and the existence of pain and suffering in the world While there is no definitive answer, various perspectives shed light on this profound. One viewpoint suggests that suffering serves as a test, shaping individuals' character and fostering spiritual growth. Adversity can lead to virtues such as resilience and compassion, contributing to personal development. From this perspective, suffering has a purpose in the spiritual evolution of

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We can posit that God allows evil to exist because the existence of evil is a necessary condition for individuals to develop or complete their moral souls. Accordingly, the world is seen, instead, as a place of “soul making in which free beings, grappling with the tasks and challenges of their existence in a common environment, may become children of God and heirs of eternal life.” We can learn what morality is about and develop proper virtues. We cannot learn what morality is and how to develop proper virtues in a vacuum nor do we know morality a priori. The suffering of others is essential for individuals to learn lessons about morality and virtue, because without the opportunities offered by suffering and evil, individuals would not have

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Throughout Harper’s book and Kheiyn’s article, I found five main points that stood out to me in relating to helping me understand why bad things happen to good people. First, God did not create pain and suffering, man has through sin and defiance. Second, although suffering is not good, God uses it to achieve good. The third point tells us that the day will come where your misery will no longer exist and God will judge evil. The fourth states that our suffering does not even compare to what God has in store for his followers.

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I personally think that suffering helps us to notice and appreciate true happiness. If we did not feel pain, we would not realize how great life is. Aristotle implies we are able to control our happiness in this way. Once we have experienced suffering we know it eventually passes and life carries

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