I agree we have enough books that attempt to explain why God allows suffering, presumably in a way that lets God off the hook. And while much smarter men than I have constructed elaborate systems in this pursuit, they are by definition exercises in speculation.

Grace flows most refreshingly through the faucet of brokenness.

The law demands that we do it all; the gospel declares that Jesus paid it all.

If the depths of everyone's sin was made public, we would all be much more gracious to each other.

The good news of the gospel [for sufferers] is not an exhortation from above to 'hang on at all costs,' or 'grin and bear it' in the midst of hardship. No, the good news is that God is hanging on to you, and in the end, when all is said and done, the power of God will triumph over every pain and loss.

Rest assured: Before God, the righteousness of Christ is all we need; before God, the righteousness of Christ is all we have.

Grace doesn't lead us into destructive behavior. Sin does. And grace is the only remedy for sin. The kindness of God leads to repentance.