Redeeming Bad Things in Good People: A Christian Perspective

Bad Things Happening to Good People: Why Does It Happen?

We live in a world filled with pain and suffering. It is a reality that affects everyone, and one of the most difficult questions in theology is why bad things happen to good people. As humans, we are limited in our understanding of God's purposes and ways. We cannot fully comprehend His plans as we are not eternal, infinite, or omniscient like Him.

The Example of Job

The book of Job in the Bible deals with the issue of why God allows bad things to happen to good people. Job was a righteous man who suffered immensely. God allowed Satan to afflict Job with unimaginable pain and loss, except for taking his life. Despite his suffering, Job maintained his trust in God, saying, "Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him" (Job 13:15). He acknowledged that even though he didn't understand why God allowed these things to happen, he knew that God was good and worthy of his trust.

The Reality of Sin

When pondering why bad things happen to good people, it is essential to consider that there are no truly "good" people in an absolute sense. All of us are tainted by sin (Ecclesiastes 7:20; Romans 3:23; 1 John 1:8). Jesus Himself said, "No one is good—except God alone" (Luke 18:19). We all experience the consequences of sin, whether it's our own personal sin or the sins committed by others. We live in a fallen world where injustice and seemingly senseless suffering exist.

Four Perspectives on Bad Things Happening

1. Eternal Perspective: Although bad things may happen to good people in this world, we must remember that this world is not the end. As Christians, we have an eternal perspective. Our present troubles are temporary, and we look forward to the eternal glory awaiting us (2 Corinthians 4:16–18). We have the assurance that there will be a reward for our faithfulness, and it will be glorious.

Why This Matters: Maintaining an eternal perspective helps us endure present suffering and find hope in the midst of trials. It reminds us that our ultimate home is in heaven, where there will be no more pain or suffering.

Think About It: How does knowing that our present troubles are temporary change our perspective on the challenges we face?

1. God's Ultimate Good: Although bad things happen to good people, God can use those very things for an ultimate and lasting good (Romans 8:28). The story of Joseph in the Bible illustrates this truth. Joseph, innocent of any wrongdoing, endured immense suffering but eventually saw God's good plan unfold (Genesis 50:19–21).

Why This Matters: Recognizing that God can bring good out of even the most painful circumstances gives us hope and assurance. We can trust that He is working all things together for our good, even when we cannot see the bigger picture.

Think About It: Can you think of a time when you experienced something difficult but later realized how it led to something positive in your life?

1. Deeper Ministry: Bad things happening to good people can equip believers for deeper ministry. As we experience God's comfort and healing in our own troubles, we are better able to comfort others going through similar situations (2 Corinthians 1:3–5). Our own experiences of suffering allow us to empathize with and support those who are hurting.

Why This Matters: Our personal experiences of pain and suffering can become sources of strength and encouragement for others. God can use our trials to bring comfort and healing to those who need it most.

Think About It: How have you been able to support or encourage someone going through a difficult time based on your own experiences?

1. Jesus' Example: The worst things happened to the best Person—Jesus Christ. He was the only truly righteous One, yet He suffered more than we can imagine. Jesus' suffering and death on the cross demonstrate His love for us and provide an example for us to follow (1 Peter 2:20–23). He entrusted Himself to God, even in the midst of great suffering.

Why This Matters: Jesus' suffering shows us that we are not alone in our pain. He understands our struggles and is with us every step of the way. We can find comfort and strength in knowing that Jesus has faced the worst of human suffering.

Think About It: How does Jesus' example of enduring suffering without retaliation inspire you in your own struggles?

Trusting in God's Goodness

In conclusion, we may never fully understand why bad things happen to good people in this fallen world. Yet, as Christians, we can trust in the goodness, justice, love, and mercy of God (Psalm 135:3). It is important to remember that God is working all things according to His purposes, even when His ways are beyond our comprehension.

When faced with trials and suffering, we are called to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5–6). We walk by faith, not by sight. While we may not always understand why certain things happen, we can find comfort in knowing that God is always with us, even in the darkest moments.

Why This Matters: Trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty allows us to find peace and hope amidst life's difficulties. It anchors us in times of uncertainty and strengthens our faith.

Think About It: How can you cultivate a deeper trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, even when faced with difficult circumstances?