Every day, we read about tragic events. This morning, I read the latest reports of the tragic murder of a Yale graduate student. We are currently entering the hurricane season. There are wars, famines and the senseless, random acts of terror being reported throughout the world. Nothing seems to be worse than what man can do to his fellow man. Touched by these tragedies, it is perfectly understandable to be angry at God or even wonder if there is a God who is in control. Even the Bible records the angry prayers from godly men (e.g. Job, David, Jeremiah) who questions God’s wisdom in very difficult circumstances.

Allow me to offer a very brief response to this difficult question.

We first need to ask ourselves who is ultimately responsible for evil. This responsibility simply cannot be attached to God. God is good. He is perfect. He created perfection out of his own image. Yet, one act of disobedience, one sin, made the perfect imperfect and no longer acceptable to God. We have suffered the consequences ever since.

So, you may ask, “Why doesn’t God intervene whenever the innocent suffer and evil acts are committed?” Sometimes he does. And sometimes, he allows tragic events to happen. The evil acts people carry out cause’s great sorrow to God as well. Yet, these acts are not his responsibility. We are the ones who choose evil and as a result, innocent people suffer the consequences. At the same time, we must remember that we live in a fallen world. Suffering is a by-product that all must endure – the good and the bad. This is why the Lord continually reminds us in the Bible that life is not all about this world, but where you will be for eternity. That is the focus and the basis for hope and peace.

Check back later for future posts as we delve into this topic further.

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