We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. – Romans 8:28
The Nature of Evil
In our discussions about why God allows evil, we often find ourselves grappling with the essence of evil itself. The Bible reveals that evil is not a creation of God; rather, it emerged from the misuse of free will. We must recognize that God allows evil to exist so we can choose to follow Him freely. If we had no choice, we would not have genuine love for God. The reality of evil reminds us of the importance of choice and the consequences that follow those choices. Understanding this allows us to appreciate the contrast between good and evil and the role they play in our spiritual growth.
Genesis 50:20
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. – Genesis 50:20
James 1:13
When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone. – James 1:13
Isaiah 45:7
I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the Lord, do all these things. – Isaiah 45:7
Mark 7:21-23
For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come. These defile a person: sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and defile a person. – Mark 7:21-23
1 John 5:19
We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. – 1 John 5:19
God’s Sovereignty
When we consider why God allows evil, we must affirm His sovereignty over all creation. God is all-powerful and wise, and nothing happens outside of His control. Even the evil that exists in this world serves a greater purpose. God’s sovereignty means that He can turn what is meant for evil into good. This allows us to find hope, even in our darkest times. We can trust that God has a plan, even when it feels like evil prevails in our lives or the world around us. Believing in God’s authority provides us with peace and reassurance in uncertain times.
Romans 8:31
What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? – Romans 8:31
Psalm 76:10
Surely your wrath against mankind brings you praise; the survivors of your wrath are restrained. – Psalm 76:10
Proverbs 16:4
The Lord works out everything to its proper end—even the wicked for a day of disaster. – Proverbs 16:4
Isaiah 54:16
See, it is I who created the blacksmith who fans the coals into flame and forges a weapon fit for its work. And it is I who have created the destroyer to wreak havoc. – Isaiah 54:16
Acts 2:23
This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. – Acts 2:23
The Purpose of Suffering
God allows suffering in our lives for various reasons, helping us to grow and mature in our faith. While suffering can be painful, it often leads us to a deeper understanding of God’s love and grace. We realize that our trials create perseverance, character, and hope. When facing struggles, we must remind ourselves that God is with us, and through our hardships, we can learn to lean on Him. The purpose of allowing suffering is not punitive but meant for our spiritual development and to foster a closer relationship with God.
Romans 5:3-5
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. – Romans 5:3-5
2 Corinthians 1:4
Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble, with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. – 2 Corinthians 1:4
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. – James 1:2-4
1 Peter 1:6-7
In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. – 1 Peter 1:6-7
Philippians 3:10
I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death. – Philippians 3:10
Our Response to Evil
As Christians, we are called to respond to evil not with hatred but with love. The Bible teaches us to overcome evil with good. When we encounter evil, we should strive to show compassion and kindness, acting as instruments of peace in a world that so desperately needs it. Our responses can reflect God’s love and grace, bringing light where there is darkness. By becoming agents of goodness, we can combat the effects of evil and restore hope in those around us.
Romans 12:21
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. – Romans 12:21
Matthew 5:44
But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. – Matthew 5:44
1 Thessalonians 5:15
Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. – 1 Thessalonians 5:15
Galatians 6:9
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. – Galatians 6:9
Colossians 3:12-14
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. – Colossians 3:12-14
The Hope of Salvation
Amidst the presence of evil in our lives, God offers us the hope of salvation. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we have the promise of eternal life, a light that shines in the darkness of this world. This hope reassures us that while we may face suffering and trials now, ultimately, God has triumphed over evil through the resurrection of Christ. The assurance of salvation gives us strength to confront evil with confidence, knowing that our battles are won in Him.
John 16:33
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. – John 16:33
Revelation 21:4
‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’ – Revelation 21:4
Titus 2:13
While we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. – Titus 2:13
1 Peter 5:10
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. – 1 Peter 5:10
Romans 8:18
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. – Romans 8:18
God’s Mercy and Justice
As we reflect on the nature of evil, we discover that God is indeed merciful and just. He does not ignore evil nor does He allow it without purpose. His justice reminds us that there is accountability for actions taken in this life. However, His mercy offers us the chance for redemption and forgiveness. We are all recipients of God’s grace, and as we acknowledge our shortcomings, we are reminded to extend that same mercy towards others. Recognizing God’s justice and mercy helps us to understand the balance He maintains in allowing evil to exist while offering hope for redemption.
Psalm 103:8
The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. – Psalm 103:8
Romans 11:22
Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. – Romans 11:22
2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. – 2 Peter 3:9
Psalm 37:28
For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever, but the offspring of the wicked will be cut off. – Psalm 37:28
Micah 6:8
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. – Micah 6:8
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the idea of God allowing evil, it’s clear that He is in control and has a divine purpose. Through our choices, the world experiences both good and evil, and it’s our response that truly matters. We should strive to see suffering as a chance for growth and to extend love where there is darkness. Ultimately, our hope rests in the salvation provided by Jesus Christ, reminding us that even amidst challenges, we are not alone. God’s mercy and justice guide us, encouraging us to respond to evil with goodness and compassion.
As we explore more about faith and the world surrounding us, I encourage you to check out other topics that align with your interests. It’s always good to learn more and deepen our understanding of God’s word.