We all understand the phrase "no pain, no gain" in our physical training, or even in other aspects of our lives where we're trying to achieve something. Nothing worth having ever comes easily, or without some sort of pain along the way.

It's harder to accept that when we don't see how our pain is directly linked to that goal. When we find ourselves suffering in our life, we sometimes struggle to explain why we should have to to deal with it, why God would allow it in our lives, and why he won't get rid of it - especially when he promises his children that he will watch over them!

The book of Job deals with this question, but not in the way we often would prefer. We learn that sometimes good people DO suffer, and bad people DO succeed. But even when it seems that God is allowing injustice, the book directs us back to the true cause of all suffering, and that is the problem of sin.

Even if we haven't committed some horrible, grievous atrocity, we've still sinned. And Job calls us to use that as a reminder of our need for a redeemer, and to draw closer to God. God may not relieve our pain on our timeline, but he has promised not to leave us if we'll remain faithful through hardships that should make us stronger throughout our lives.