The problem with pain is that when you are in the thick of it, everything feels magnified. Psychology calls this cognitive distortion—patterns like magnification and catastrophizing, where our thoughts exaggerate our problems and make them seem impossible to overcome.
That’s where I’ve been these past two years. We’ve lived with practically no steady income. Thank God for family, and for the small gigs that came through when we needed them most. Somehow, we’ve never lacked—there’s always been breakfast on the table and tea with milk to share.
We’re not fully out of the woods yet, but our hearts have healed. The fog of fear has lifted, and we can finally see what God is doing.
During this time, I found myself drawn to prosperity teachings—the kind that promise blessings through declarations, giving, and building spiritual altars. I was desperate for breakthrough, searching for spiritual “keys” to unlock blessings. I’ve been here before, even during my struggle with infertility, trying to apply every faith formula I could find. But the truth is, not all of it worked.
I’ve met people who have walked away from their faith after such experiences—when the results didn’t match the promises. That’s why I believe we need a proper theology of suffering and pain.
So why am I happy, even when not all my prayers are answered? Because I’ve learned that God Himself is my source. Not once has He abandoned me. He’s provided in ways I didn’t expect.
The Bible reminds us to expect suffering—not as something to manifest, but as part of life in a fallen world. “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.” (Philippians 1:29)
Yet even in suffering, God promises a reward for those who remain steadfast: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial, because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life.” (James 1:12)
Whatever you’re going through today, take it to God. Ask Him to lift the pain—sometimes He will, sometimes He won’t—but trust Him either way. Ask Him to comfort you; He will speak, and His Word will strengthen your heart. Search the Scriptures for what you’re facing, and let His truth minister to you.
Even in pain, God is working. He hasn’t forgotten you.