Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?

Why do bad things happen to good people? “Did you hear? I can’t believe that happened.” “Isn’t that awful? They are such nice people.” Those conversations and others relay news that may bring sorrow or heartache. Details are often shared from person to person. Reports on television, computer, social media, and conversations between friends, family, and strangers tell of bad things happening to good people.

One of the first questions we ask when learning of something bad happening to a good person is “Why?” We inquire and want to know the answer immediately. We pray to God and seek His answer. We want to understand how something bad could happen, especially to good people.

Tears may come, anger may erupt, or silence may be the way we handle the situation.

God knows our heart. Emotions may be hard to control. When our bodies are shaking with  uncontrollable sobs, He is there. When anger surfaces because of what has happened, God is with us. When we are lost and confused, He is there. The Father waits patiently for us to seek Him and rest in His peace.

When bad things happen, we must remember to go to the Father and seek His comfort. Prayer is a powerful tool that God has given His people. God is always listening. He hears our cries for mercy, our pleas for help, and He collects our tears. The answer may not come in this lifetime. God will answer in His way and in His timing.

God never promised this life on earth would be without trials. With the first sin of Adam and Eve, the world changed. God gave judgment to the serpent, as well as to Adam and Eve. We continue to sin today. However, we have the opportunity to repent of our sins and seek His forgiveness.

Bad things happen to good people, and to bad people. We can rest in Him knowing whatever occurs, the door will be open to draw closer to the Father and to bring others into relationship with Him.

Why do bad things happen to good people? Only God knows the true answer.

Scriptures to Help When We Want Answers

“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 NIV).

“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 NIV).

“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 NIV).

“No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the Lord (Isaiah 54:17 NIV).

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27 NIV).

“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 NIV).

Trust in the Lord. When bad things happen, know that He has never left. He will guide us through all situations, when we go to Him. Although we may not know why bad things happen, God has the answers. Find comfort in knowing you are loved by the Father.

In His Name,

Melissa Henderson