Dr. Floyd Godfrey
Pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, yet it is something we instinctively avoid. No one willingly embraces suffering and as T.D. Jakes aptly notes in Crushing: God Turns Pressure Into Power, "No healthy person enjoys the violation of excruciating discomfort, either acutely or chronically, that signals some problem or malfunction in our bodies and minds—not in the least bit" (Jakes, 2019, p. 136). Despite this, pain often becomes the means through which God speaks most clearly to us. It is in our moments of most profound anguish that God’s voice becomes unmistakably clear, shouting to us through the noise of life.
Pain as God's Megaphone
C.S. Lewis once famously remarked, "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pain: It is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world." This sentiment captures the reality that pain, though unpleasant, often serves a divine purpose. It gets our attention in ways that nothing else can. When life is smooth and comfortable, we might be tempted to forget our dependence on God. However, when pain strikes, we are abruptly reminded of our fragility and our need for Him.
In the book of Job, we see this dynamic at play. Job’s intense suffering stripped away all the comforts of life, leaving him with nothing but his relationship with God. Through his pain, Job experienced a profound encounter with the Almighty, one that reshaped his understanding of God and deepened his faith. Similarly, our pain often catalyzes spiritual growth, drawing us closer to God and opening our ears to His voice.
The Value of Suffering
One of the most challenging aspects of pain is understanding its value. While no one wants to suffer, Jakes provides a profound insight: "But there is something we learn through the experience of pain and struggle that we don't learn anywhere else, and that is appreciation. For you do not love that which costs you nothing" (Jakes, 2019, p. 136). This statement highlights the idea that the hardships we endure can lead to a deeper appreciation for life, for others, and God Himself. Pain teaches us to value what truly matters and to cherish the blessings we often take for granted.
The Bible is replete with examples of how suffering can produce something of great worth. In Romans 5:3-4 (NIV), Paul writes, "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." This passage reminds us that pain when surrendered to God, can be transformative. It shapes our character, strengthens our resolve, and ultimately leads to an unshakeable hope.
Learning to Listen in the Midst of Pain
If God shouts in our pain, then our task is to learn to listen. This requires a posture of humility and a willingness to seek God in the midst of our struggles. Instead of running from pain, we must learn to embrace it as a potential vehicle for God’s voice. This doesn’t mean that we seek out suffering but rather that we recognize its potential to bring us closer to God.
In Psalm 34:18 (NIV), we are given a precious promise: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." This verse assures us that in our moments of most incredible pain, God is not distant but near. He is present, offering comfort and guidance and using our pain to accomplish His purposes in our lives.
Conclusion
Pain, though complex, often becomes the arena in which God speaks most clearly to us. It strips away our illusions of self-sufficiency and draws us into a deeper relationship with Him. While no one enjoys suffering, it is in these moments that we can experience God’s presence and hear His voice most powerfully. As we navigate the challenges of life, may we learn to listen for God’s voice in the midst of our pain, trusting that He is using it for our ultimate good.
Floyd Godfrey, PhD, is a Board-Certified Christian Counselor who has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed counselor for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD, at www.FloydGodfrey.com.
References
Jakes, T. D. (2019). Crushing: God Turns Pressure Into Power. Hachette Book Group, Inc.
