Theology of Suffering

Beliefs about why pain and hardship exist, and how they relate to faith

• You were told your suffering was a “test” to grow your faith.

• You believed that you were being punished whenever bad things happened.

• You were praised for staying silent in pain because it meant you were strong in your faith.

Potential clinical implications (especially in high control settings)

• Difficulty may arise in expressing pain or asking for help.

• Self-blame can develop for events or hardships beyond personal control.

• Shame may be felt for struggling instead of “suffering well.”