I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:17
It is easy to question the goodness of God.
I don’t understand why God allows pain – does God exist? Someone I know died – God allowed this; I don’t believe in Him anymore. Look at the terrible things done in the name of God not only in the Bible but throughout history – if God does exist, He either doesn’t care or can’t do anything about it.
To go from “I don’t understand” to “God doesn’t exist” to “God is either evil or impotent” doesn’t make sense. These accusations against God have at their base a lack of understanding.
Just because we don’t understand God, doesn’t mean that He doesn’t exist. Life is complicated; God stands above all – perhaps there is an explanation that is received by faith.
Doubt attacks faith; doubt is always too simplistic, jumping to conclusions beyond the reach of the questions.
Let’s consider:
- Agreed, pain exists. If we throw out God, then there is no hope of pain having eternal blessing. As Paul encourages in Romans 8:28: “… all things work for the good for those who love God and walking according to His purposes.”
- Nothing is more difficult than the passing of some you love. God can take your questions! He doesn’t give the total explanation, but God gives you His comforting presence. Denying God during loss eliminates the possibility of spending eternity with this person. Paul writes again in Romans 838-39: “… for I am convinced that neither death nor life… will be able to separate us from the love of God.”
- Considering the terrible events in the Bible and in history. How about free will? If God created to us make choices, sooner or later we will choose to disobey God. God can either judge immediately or allow history to unfold. As Paul writes in Romans 8:32: “… God did not spare His own Son but delivered Him up for us all.”
I believe criticism of God can become a spectator sport. Like criticizing a basketball player from the stands. Too easy. Now, if you had to engage that player on the court in a game – a different matter entirely. Standing aloof and questioning God’s goodness will also bring a different response when you see a powerful and loving God after you die.
Perhaps pain exists because humans are sinners. God desires all to be saved. He has an ultimate purpose for eternity where all will be understood. We can’t see this now so it must be accepted by faith.
Doubt and questions miss the point. The real question might not be about the goodness of God and the presence of evil…
…but about us!
Are we willing to confess the sin in our lives that contributes to the accumulative evil in the world? Or are our doubts a means to justify our disobedience?
I heard a young man say, “If you believe in God, you won’t have fun in life.” When the perceived fun becomes a fatal drunken auto accident – is this God’s fault?
My point about God.
Those who honestly confront their own sin, find faith and peace in a God who loves them.