Table of Contents
Why Do Calamities Come on the Righteous?
God created humans with the freedom of choice (Deuteronomy 30:15-18). This means that humans can choose good or evil. Sadly, our first parents listened to the devil, disobeyed God and lost their original state of perfection (Genesis 3). That is why now, the devil is the Lord of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4) and because of sin there is so much pain and suffering (Romans 6:23).
God does not send calamities or trials but only permits it to happen (James 1:13). The story of Job is a good example of this. Job was a righteous man. But the devil, in the courts of heaven, accused him of being good for the blessings he was receiving from God and that if God withdraws these blessings, Job will blaspheme God (Job 1).
So, the Lord allowed the devil to test Job to show the universe that Job was indeed faithful. The devil tested Job severely by making him lose his possessions, children, and finally His health. Job in all these trials kept his faith in the Lord. In fact, he said when he learned of his losses “the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD” (Job 1:21).
In all these calamities, Job continued to fully trust in God and added, “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him” (Job 13:15). Job was tried by fire but he came out blameless. Therefore, God rewarded him greatly for his faith with more blessings. He gave him children, more possessions and more honor than what he originally had (Job 42).
The Ultimate Expression of Love
When we look at the cross, we see the limitless love of God. And we are confident that God who gave His only begotten Son (John 3:16) will not withhold any good thing from us (Romans 8:32). There is no greater love than this that someone may lay His life for the ones whom he loves (John 15:13). God did not have pity on His own Son so that He can save us. What infinite love!
Even though calamities happen, God uses all things for the good of His children “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Romans 8:28). Even the hardships and pain of this life, far from hindering our redemption, may help it forward. At every step the believer may be in the hands of God and be carrying out His wise plan.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
