We’ve all had moments when life doesn’t make sense — when loss, disappointment, or confusion leave us asking, “Why would God let this happen?”
The Bible is full of people who asked that same question. Yet time and again, God showed them that what felt like tragedy was actually part of a greater plan. Their stories remind us that when things fall apart, God may be moving pieces into place for something far better than we imagined.
Here are a few timeless examples — and how they speak to our lives today.
🌾 1. Joseph: From Betrayal to Blessing (Genesis 37–50)
Joseph’s life was a rollercoaster of pain and providence. Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and thrown into prison for a crime he didn’t commit — it must have felt like his life was over.
But years later, God used Joseph’s suffering to position him as a leader in Egypt, where he saved countless lives during a famine — including his own family’s.
> “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good…” — Genesis 50:20
Modern takeaway:
When we’re treated unfairly or stuck in a season we don’t understand, it doesn’t mean God has forgotten us. Sometimes He’s preparing us for a purpose that will only make sense years later. What looks like a setback can be a setup for something greater.
💔 2. Job: When Faith Meets Suffering (Book of Job)
Job lost everything — his wealth, health, and children — and he couldn’t understand why God would allow it. His questions were raw and honest. But in the end, Job learned something profound: even when he couldn’t see God’s hand, he could still trust His heart.
> “My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you.” — Job 42:5
Modern takeaway:
Pain can deepen faith in ways comfort never could. Like Job, we may never get all the answers we want, but we can grow closer to God through the experience. Suffering isn’t a sign that God is absent — it’s often where He reveals Himself most clearly.
🌹 3. Ruth: From Loss to Legacy (Book of Ruth)
Ruth faced devastating loss when her husband died, leaving her with no security or future. Yet she chose loyalty and faithfulness, following her mother-in-law Naomi to a new land. That act of courage led her to Boaz — and ultimately into the lineage of King David and Jesus Himself.
> “The Lord has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead.” — Ruth 2:20
Modern takeaway:
When your future feels uncertain, God is still writing your story. Faithfulness in the small steps — showing up, loving well, doing what’s right — often leads to blessings we never saw coming.
🌊 4. The Israelites: Trapped at the Red Sea (Exodus 13–14)
Imagine standing at the edge of the Red Sea with Pharaoh’s army closing in behind you. The Israelites thought they were doomed — that God had led them into a dead end. But that impossible moment became the stage for one of the greatest miracles in history.
> “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” — Exodus 14:14
Modern takeaway:
When you feel trapped — between fear and the unknown — remember that God specializes in impossible situations. Sometimes He doesn’t remove the obstacle; He parts the sea right through it.
⛓️ 5. Paul: Finding Purpose in Prison (Philippians 1:12–14)
Paul was imprisoned for preaching about Jesus, yet he didn’t see his chains as defeat. Instead, he realized that his suffering was advancing the Gospel. From his prison cell came letters that continue to encourage millions of believers today.
> “What has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.” — Philippians 1:12
Modern takeaway:
Our circumstances don’t define our calling. Even when doors close, God can use our limitations to influence others in ways we’d never expect. Purpose isn’t about where we are — it’s about who we are in Him.
✝️ 6. Jesus: The Cross and the Crown
The greatest example of God bringing good out of suffering is Jesus Himself. His crucifixion looked like utter defeat. But through His death and resurrection, He brought redemption to the world.
> “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” — Romans 8:28
Modern takeaway:
If God could turn the darkest moment in history into salvation for humanity, He can redeem anything in our lives. The cross reminds us that God’s plans are always bigger — and better — than our pain.
🌤️ Final Thought: Trusting the Storyteller
You may not see the purpose behind your pain right now, but that doesn’t mean it’s meaningless. Every detour, disappointment, and delay can be part of a divine design. The same God who redeemed Joseph, Ruth, and Paul is still at work in your story today.
Hold on. Keep trusting. One day, you’ll look back and see that what once nearly broke you actually built you — and that God was writing something beautiful all along.
Further Reading – (Amazon)
15 Rules To Strengthen Mind And Body
52 Weeks of Wellbeing: A No Nonsense Guide to a Fulfilling Work Life
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
Don’t Believe Everything You Think: Why Your Thinking Is the Beginning & End of Suffering
Thanks for Visiting!
If you enjoyed reading this post, and you think others might benefit from reading it, why not email it to a friend or share it on social media. Thank you!
Ready to Begin your Healing Journey?
If this has resonated with you and you feel you would benefit from discussing it in a therapeutic setting, contact us now in strict confidence. Don’t miss out on this opportunity! We are here to help.
My Book
You can also buy a copy of my book from Amazon
About me
Steven Lucas MBACP PNCPS (Accred) is a professional counselling psychotherapist working in Northamptonshire. Read Full Bio.
On a Personal Note:
This blog is more than words—it’s my way of creating a life of meaning, purpose, and support for the people I love most: my family.
After years of navigating life’s emotional highs and lows, I realised that what people crave isn’t just information—they want belonging, encouragement, and heart. That’s what I set out to share here.
Every post is crafted with intention: to inspire, to uplift, and to offer real hope. Whether you’re struggling with mental wellbeing, searching for personal growth, or simply looking to feel less alone in a busy world, you’re in the right place.
What drives me? The Lord and my family, and the belief that with empathy and authentic connection, we can build a better world—one reader at a time. Thanks for being here. You’re not just a visitor—you’re part of this journey.
Don’t Forget to Share your Thoughts in the Comments Section Below!
Healing isn’t linear, and emotional wellbeing isn’t a destination—it’s a relationship we build with ourselves over time. I’ve shared a piece of my journey here, but I know every path looks different. What’s helped you feel more grounded or whole lately? Whether it’s a small ritual, a big breakthrough, or even a question you’re still sitting with—I’d love to hear it. Your story might be exactly what someone else needs to read today.
Other Posts
If you found this page useful, you might also enjoy reading these posts:
Emotional Wellbeing: A Biblical Perspective
How To Start Addressing Relationship Difficulties
Being Positive In Difficult Times
How Can I Get A Better Night’s Sleep?
How Can I Improve My Self Esteem?
Being Assertive And Managing Boundaries
Coping With Symptoms Of Stress, Anxiety And Low Mood
Buy Me a Coffee?
If you’ve found comfort, insight, or encouragement here, and you’d like to say a little “thank you,” buying me a coffee is an amazing way to do just that. Your support helps me continue offering heartfelt content, maintaining a safe space for those seeking guidance, and expanding access to mental health support.
Whether it’s one coffee or a few, your gesture means the world. It tells me that what I’m doing matters—and that I’m not alone in this mission to bring light into people’s lives.
Disclaimer:
I am not a doctor so this guide should not be considered a replacement for seeking medical advice. It is also not a substitute for obtaining therapy as other factors, such as trauma, need to be considered.
There are pay per click ads on this site for which I may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps to pay for the running of the site. I do not endorse any of the products advertised.
Some of the blog posts on this website include content that was generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI). While we strive for accuracy and clarity, AI-generated material may contain errors or reflect limitations in current technology. Please use your own judgment and consult professional sources when making decisions based on this content.