Why Does God Allow Suffering? Faith, Evil, and Hope Explained
Thinking Faith Catholic Podcast
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 Gethsemane25:08 Despair After the Cross27:11 John the Baptist Doubts29:30 Guilt Over Graces30:15 Why Me to Why Not32:10 Evil Defeats Itself33:08 Problem of the Good35:30 Gratitude in Hard Times40:24 Truth Not Denial42:04 Wrap Up and Thanks