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The Bible is not a manual for mental health in a modern sense, but it provides profound consolation and a framework to appreciate life despite its inherent challenges. Job, expressing a universal truth, stated: “Man, born of woman, is short of days and full of trouble” (Job 14:1). Human imperfection certainly contributes to our trials, but who bears the primary responsibility for human suffering?
The Scriptures identify Satan as the primary cause of human suffering. Revelation 12:9, 12 reveals that Satan, also known as the Devil, “deceives the whole inhabited earth,” bringing numerous troubles upon humanity. However, the Bible assures us that Satan’s time is limited and his influence will soon end by divine intervention. Jehovah promises a new world where righteousness prevails, ending hopelessness and despair (2 Peter 3:13).
This promise provides immense comfort, knowing that human suffering is temporary. Under the rule of God’s heavenly Kingdom, administered by Jesus Christ, injustice and suffering will be eradicated. Psalm 72:12-14 vividly portrays the benevolence of God’s appointed King:
12 For he delivers the needy when he calls,
the poor and him who has no helper.
13 He has pity on the weak and the needy,
and the lives of the needy he will save.
14 He will redeem their soul from oppression and violence,
and precious is their blood in his sight.
These prophetic words assure us that relief is near. The fulfillment of these promises will bring about eternal life on a renewed earth under magnificent conditions (Luke 23:43; John 17:3). Knowledge of these comforting Scriptural assurances provides hope and solace to those in distress.
Jehovah’s purpose for the earth is clear: it was created to be inhabited by perfect humans living in harmony under His sovereignty. Genesis 1:28 and 2:8, 15 depict God’s original intent for humanity to oversee the earth and its creatures. Despite sin, God’s plan remains unaltered, as Isaiah 45:18 emphasizes that the earth was formed to be inhabited. Through Jesus’ ransom sacrifice, Jehovah made salvation and redemption possible for humankind.
The Bible presents two hopes for redeemed humans: a heavenly hope and an earthly hope. The heavenly hope, seemingly limited to a specific number, involves ruling with Christ as kings, priests, and judges, either on or over the earth (Revelation 5:10; 20:6). Those with an earthly hope anticipate eternal life on a restored paradise earth, fulfilling God’s original intention (Psalm 37:29; Matthew 5:5).
Isaiah 11:6-9 paints a vivid picture of this future paradise, where peace and harmony will prevail:
6 The wolf will dwell with the lamb,
and the leopard will lie down with the young goat,
and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together;
and a little boy will lead them.
7 The cow and the bear will graze;
their young will lie down together;
and the lion will eat straw like the ox.
8 The nursing child will play over the hole of the cobra,
and the weaned child will put his hand on the adder’s den.
9 They shall not hurt or destroy
in all my holy mountain;
for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of Jehovah
as the waters cover the sea.
This depiction of a renewed earth offers a compelling vision of the complete rule of God, fulfilling the ultimate purpose of creation. It signifies the full realization of redemption’s goal, bringing an end to suffering and injustice.
The understanding of these promises provides a foundation for hope and consolation. The Bible’s teachings guide believers in navigating life’s challenges, offering reassurance of a future where divine justice and peace will prevail. By embracing these Scriptural truths, those crying for help can find solace in the promise of a world free from suffering, ruled by Jehovah’s righteousness.
About the Author
EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).
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