Philippians

"I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put her for the defense of the gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. what then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice."

-- Philippians 1:12-18 (ESV)

Question: Why does a "loving" God allow "terrible" things to happen to His "children?"

The previous question popped into mind upon reading the verses in Philippians. These are just some thoughts on the two.  

Paul experienced a lot in His journey proclaiming God's truth. He suffered from imprisonments, beatings, etc. Yet, His faith is solid as we know from 2 Corinthians 4:17 (ESV)

"For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison." 

 Paul, in verse 12 of Philippians 1,  gives his understanding for why he has faced what he has faced. He says it is for the advancement of the Gospel. It showed that there was no hindrance in spreading salvation. It also showed his faith in trusting that Lord will always take care of him, and it also proved his allegiance. He did not give in to his sufferings. He stayed bold in his faith preaching truth. 

So in our own lives I can view a few possible reasons for sufferings:

1. Tests of faith.  How are we going to respond when faced with a challenge? Will we rely on the Lord for strength, guidance, everything, or will we turn to worldly things that have no value?
2. Proof. I feel that some experiences serve as reminders that the things in this world are only temporary. We are in need of something greater. The greater being a savior, our Lord. 
3. Advancement. What we experience can be used to glorify God even more! It can open opportunities to share the Gospel with others who are experiencing the same battles.