Divine "Goodness" is not "mere kindness" or a desire for our comfort.
Human pain is largely "man-made," resulting from our and the misuse of freedom. The Problem of Pain
Lewis begins by addressing the "simplest form" of the problem: Divine "Goodness" is not "mere kindness" or a
This environment must remain consistent even when choices lead to pain; otherwise, free will is an illusion. 2. The Meaning of Goodness Lewis Institute )
: "God whispers to us in our pleasures... but shouts in our pains: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world" ( C.S. Lewis Institute ).
: Lewis acknowledges this is "mostly speculation." He suggests animals may find a sense of "self" and immortality through their relationship with humans.
Lewis offers an imaginative account of the , where humanity chose self-sufficiency over dependence on God. The Purpose of Pain: "The Megaphone"