Why Does God Allow Suffering? Faith, Evil, and Hope Explained

About this episode

The episode explores the question of why God allows suffering, discussing the nature of evil and the role of faith in understanding pain and hope.

TF | S03 E19 | In this episode of Thinking Faith, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld respond to a powerful question from Grade 9–10 students at Miller High School: If God is always helping us, why is there so much suffering in the world?Drawing on Christian theology, Scripture, and real-life experience, they explore the problem of evil, distinguishing between natural suffering and moral evil, and examining how faith understands both. The conversation highlights how God does not cause suffering—but works through it, bringing grace, growth, and hope even in the most difficult moments.Through insights from the Psalms, the Cross, and everyday life, this episode offers a deeply honest and hopeful look at suffering—encouraging listeners to seek the full truth of their lives, practice gratitude, and trust that evil does not have the final word.01:14 Student Questions02:23 Why God Allows Pain03:19 Natural vs Moral Evil05:24 Death and Sin10:07 Grace Changes Perspective12:41 Holy Indifference Ignatius14:47 Evil Feels Like Winning17:57 Hope Through Suffering18:59 God Doesn't Waste Pain20:18 Remembering Past Grace20:56 When You Would Trade It23:04 Trust Beyond Answers24:17 Christ in…

People in this episode

Hosts: Deacon Eric Gurash, Dr. Brett Salkeld

Topics covered

• suffering
• faith
• evil
• hope
• Christian theology
• natural suffering
• moral evil

Keywords

• suffering
• evil
• faith
• hope
• Christian theology
• natural evil
• moral evil
• grace
• gratitude

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Miller High School

Books & works: Psalms

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