Bad things are happening – to people you know, to Christians here and in other places, and perhaps to you also. For people of faith the question continues to arise, Is all this really God’s will? If He is good and powerful, why do so many bad things continue to happen to good people?

Many have tried to answer those types of questions with high-sounding theological arguments. But in the end the only answer that really counts is the one you come to in your own heart after an encounter with God.

What is God’s will? The witness of Scripture and of other believers helps with that question. Remember that in the Bible very bad things happened to God’s best friends. In today’s world, here are some things that are NOT God’s will.

Recent Events in the United States

• The shooting and massacre during a prayer meeting in a church in Charleston, SC this week.
• The continued violence and lawlessness in Baltimore, MD.
• The escape of two murderers from a New York state prison.
• The destruction of property and loss of life from the floods in Texas, Oklahoma, and beyond during the past few weeks.
• The exploitation of events and people by those who would profit from a culture of victimization.
• The flaunting of a liberal sexual ethic that makes mockery of God’s plan and standards.
• The politicization of Christianity on both the right and the left.
• The public failures and shaming of Christians in the public eye.

Conditions in This Country and Around the World

• Exploitation of those who are vulnerable by those who have power.
• Lack of personal responsibility leading to laziness, dependency, and disease.
• Domestic violence, violence against women, and exploitation of children
• Poverty, racism, illness, and corruption.
• Terrorism, anti-Semitism, ethnic cleansing, and war.
• Irresponsible destruction of Earth’s natural resources.
• Religious abuse and violence.

Circumstances In Your Own Life and Family

• Lack of money, opportunity, or other resources.
• Sickness or disease.
• Broken relationships between family members.
• Isolation from others in the body of Christ.
• Guilt, shame, fear, depression, or anxiety.
• Betrayal, infidelity, or addiction.
• Not fully fulfilling the purpose for which God put you in this world.

There are many things in our world and our lives that are not God’s will. This is not the way He intended things to be!

Thankfully the Bible provides a picture of the way God originally created this world to be. (Genesis 1 and 2). And it also provides a picture of the way things will be when God completes His work. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)

Aren’t you eager for that day?!

The world is groaning for the end to come. (Romans 8:22-23) Until then:

1. Do your job. Whatever it is that God has placed in your hand to do, do it with integrity, excellence, and faith. (Luke 19:12-13)
2. Don’t lose hope. Our suffering here, as real as it is, is nothing compared to the glory God has waiting for us. (Romans 8:18)
3. Remember eternity. We know the end of the story! It’s the joy in front of us that gives us the courage and hope to persevere. (Hebrews 12:2)
4. Trust God. While we may have trouble here, God’s always got your back. He will never leave you alone. When you can’t see anything good, remember He’s in charge. (Matthew 28:20)

Even so, Come, Lord Jesus!

Your Turn: Is there something in your life that is NOT God’s will? What helps you look forward with hope? Leave a comment below. 

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