Why do evil things happen to good people?
God allows evil things to happen to good people for a good reason (1 Peter 1:7). Above all, however, we must remember that God is good, just, loving, and merciful. So, when things happen to us that we simply cannot understand, instead of doubting God’s goodness, we should trust Him. ”Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
The book of Job deals with the issue of evil. God had allowed Satan to bring evil to Job except kill him. But job reacted, “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him” (Job 13:15). And Job added, “The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised” (Job 1:21). Job did not understand why God had allowed trials his way, but he knew God was good and therefore continued to trust in Him. And His trust was greatly rewarded at the end of his trials. For “the Lord blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning” (Job 42:12).
And remember that temptations are temporary and for a season (1 Peter 1:6). Even Jesus was tempted, but He rebuked the devil and he left (James 4:7). Don’t get discouraged and keep going forward (James 1:2) believing that God works all evil things for the good for those that love Him (Romans 8:28).
When Satan sees we’re escaping from his hands, it terrifies him and he tries to discourage us from following Christ by placing difficulties in our way (1 Peter 4:12). But the Bible tells us if we draw near to God, He will draw near to us and deliver us (2 Peter 2:9).
The Bible teaches, “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). Submission means complete trust that all God’s arrangements are for the believer’s own good (Hebrews 12:9). Every Christian must resist temptation as His Master did. And when this is done, the weakest person who finds safety in the power of Christ will cause Satan to tremble and to flee.
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In His service,
BibleAsk Team
