Why does God let this happen?

This question has been asked by a countless number of people over the years. In the past 100 years, our world has experienced World Wars, genocides, ethnic cleansings, acts of terrorism, and an increasing number of public shootings. These tragic events have caused many people to question how God could let this happen. Even Job asked God “Let me know why You prosecute me.” (Job 10:2) Without a doubt, this world has plenty of troubles and tragedies. Many wonder why God allows this, or if God even exists.

The book of Genesis tells us the story of God creating the heavens & earth. In 6 days he created, formed, and populated the earth, and it was good. God created for us a perfect sinless world. Shortly after this, Satan convinced Eve and Adman to eat the fruit from the forbidden tree. With this, they were cast out of the garden and Eden & sin entered the world. (Genesis 3:1-7)

Our world is full of sin and we are all sinners (Romans 3:23). There are good people, and there are bad people. Bad people do bad things, sometimes to good people. A common misconception is that God makes the world perfect (or that He should) and nothing bad should ever happen. Others believe that since there is so much trouble in the world, God must not be real. In John 16:33 we hear Jesus Christ telling His disciples “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.”

Not only are we not promised a perfect world, we are plainly told that there will be trouble. Now don’t be discouraged. Jesus also gives us many encouraging words to remind us that He will always be with us, comfort us, and give us a renewed strength through all of our troubles.

I cannot say why God allows devastating tragedies to happen. I do not know why He allows people to suffer. All I do know is that He does have a plan for all of us and that He will always be with us. There has been much controversy between theologians as to whether or not ‘everything happens for a reason’ or if some events are a matter of our free will to do good or evil.

“ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ” Jeremiah 29:11

“And 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

We do know that God does not want or plan bad things for us. However the plans to prosper us and for our good, are not necessarily what we think. Sometimes He does put us through trials, but never more then we can handle (I Corinthians 10:13) and He will also help us through them if we will trust in Him.

A good friend of mine recently went through a very troubling situation. While at work, he was physically assaulted and injured by a complete stranger. When he was attacked, rather than running from the situation he stayed to fight the man off in order to protect his female co-workers. It is a very unfortunate situation anytime someone is attacked. Even in the face of trials and tragedy, we must remember that He is still in control and may have reasons that we do not understand.

I have no doubt God was still in control of this situation. By God giving my friend the courage to fight off the assailant, he was able to protect his co-workers. By doing so, he was able to let God’s love show through him by his selfless act. Despite his injuries, God protected him because the ending could have been much worse. The situation taught everyone involved a very valuable lesson that could save another life down the road.

Every day, God not only gives us the opportunity to be strong and courageous, he also empowers us to. Despite what is happening or has happened to you, God is still in control and has plans prosper you. Love the Lord & trust in Him, no matter what!

Isaiah 41:10