RC Sproul was once asked the question, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” His answer was, “That only happened once, and He volunteered.” Sproul was absolutely correct, yet this question often comes from the cry of an aching heart seeking meaning in the midst of pain.

Let’s explore four biblical truths that shed light on this challenging topic. 

1. Our definition of good is limited.

It’s vital to understand that our idea of good is often incomplete. Scripture teaches that no human is perfectly righteous according to God’s standard. Even our best deeds can be tainted by wrong motives or incomplete love. 

Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick. Who can understand it?” This highlights how easy it is for us to think we’re morally pure when we’re actually not. It also reminds us that our view of who is good isn’t as complete as God’s. 

2. We live in a world broken by sin.

When Adam and Eve chose to disobey God in the garden, suffering and death entered the world. Think of it like a cracked windshield: you can still see through it, but everything is warped. Tornadoes, disease, and pain are all symptoms of a world estranged from its Creator. Although this may sound bleak, it also reminds us that pain is a temporary intrusion, not our eternal destiny. 

3. God is sovereign and good.

You might still wonder: why does God allow it? Well, the Book of Job offers a striking narrative. Job was called blameless, yet he suffered immeasurably. He lost family, health, and possessions.

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