Q & A

Why do bad things happen to good people?

God has not given one simple answer, but His Word provides all we need to know in order to live victoriously (2 Peter 1:3,4). Being all-powerful and all-loving, He absolutely works all things for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

If God protected His children from all storms, disappointments, poverty and plagues, people would be tempted to serve Him for selfish reasons, as Satan falsely accused Job of doing (Job 1:10,11). Good people have no insurance against death; even innocent children and babies die. Heartbroken loved ones can be comforted by God’s promise that He sometimes takes the righteous one away “from the evil to come” (Isaiah 57:1, KJV).

God chastens His children (Hebrews 12:5) to correct wrong attitudes and prevent sin. Paul suffered a painful infirmity, “a messenger of Satan” to keep him from pride (2 Corinthians 12:7).

Fiery trials come to purify our faith (1 Peter 1:7). As believers, we share in the “fellowship of [Christ’s] sufferings” (Philippians 3:10). The same world that hated Him hates us (John 15:18-21). The sufferings of Christ abound in good people so they can know the comfort God gives. Then — and only then — are they prepared to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-6).

— The late Dr. OPAL REDDIN was a long-time Central Bible College professor of biblical studies and author of numerous books and articles.

To view the full response to this question, visit the Sept. 24 post at answers.agblogger.org.