Why doesn't God stop the terrible evil in our world?
This is a question that has troubled Christians and non-Christians throughout history. It’s sometimes asked sincerely and it's sometimes used as a “weapon” against God and faith. While there will always be aspects of this question beyond our finite understanding, God has left us enough clues and insights to help us deal with the unknowns.
First, let's put evil in context:
1. Who brought sin and death into the world?
2. Who is never responsible for evil?
James 1:13-15:
1 John 1:5:
This is one of the biggest ironies: We blame God for evil when we brought it into the world!
3. Has God ever punished an innocent man? Yes, but only once.
Second, let's put evil in perspective:
1. Christians only experience evil on earth.
We have an eternity of pure goodness in heaven. No more sickness, hate, cruelty, abuse, or sadness!
2. We have someone who identifies with our suffering.
Have friends or family betrayed you?
Matthew 26:38-46;55-56
Have you been physically abused?
Have you been physically abused?
Matthew 27:26
Were you ever mocked and unjustly criticized?
Were you ever mocked and unjustly criticized?
Matthew 27:27-31
Where you blamed for something you didn't do?
Where you blamed for something you didn't do?
Never forget this truth:
3. Why do we have trouble understanding things in life?
Third, let's Trust God's Character.
Let's remember the simple rule God gave us from the beginning:
“If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.”
Doing what is right isn't about “works” salvation. It's putting our trust in God first and foremost and with His help obeying His loving commands.
How will Putting evil in context, putting it in perspective, and remembering God's character help you answer questions about evil and suffering? I encourage you to prepare yourself to answer these questions (1 Peter 3:15)
With these truths as a foundation, these short devotions can help you fill in some of the details:
Why did God create man with the ability to sin?
Why do we suffer for Adam's sin?
Why Didn't God Create a World Without Suffering?
Why Do We Care About Suffering and Evil?
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