Several passages in the Bible refer to the suffering that the Hebrews and several prophets had to endure as they attempted to survive in a variety of hostile environments. A number of times, Jesus noted that he must undergo suffering at the hands of men in order to fulfill certain prophecies, and redeem fallen humanity. He certainly was an accurate predictor.
In these biblical writings, the characters did not seek suffering, but understood over time that ailments are part of life. Indeed, we learn that if we attempt to avoid suffering at all costs, it will find us when we least expect it. Obstacles come in many forms due to life events that we can’t always control.
