Bad things happen in life

Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? Understanding Life’s Challenges from a Biblical Perspective

Explore the reasons behind life’s challenges, discover God’s promises, and learn to find peace in the midst of suffering through biblical wisdom and personal insights.

Why do bad things happen to good people?

This question is something I have wrestled with and come to peace about, after a lifetime of watching others and experiencing bad things. It has been the past decade that the rubber has hit the road for me with this essential question of life. The bible tells us, and we can see it every day in the news, Bad things do indeed happen. I don’t have to tell you that one.

When life HITS, and we see good people have bad things happen, asking WHY – is a very natural question.

Why do bad things happen to good people?

It feels right and more just – that bad things should happen to bad people – right?

And good things should happen to good people – that feels so much better, well to me anyway. How about you?

I have written this blog because a group of amazing young women asked, and I am sharing the answer tonight with them – It’s a rich question that has been wrestled with since probably the dawn of time, and many opinions have been offered, and been made…

Lewis, M.D. argues about bad things happening that “The universe has no purpose, but we do. We give value and meaning to life. Pepole can and do care, even if the universe doesn’t.” 

Contrary to Lewis, I believe and have experienced God bringing me purpose through tough experiences and suffering-not that He brought them, but He brings good out of them. Which is exactly the stories I share about in my book series, ‘Be Held by Him – Finding God When Life Knocks You off Your Feet. He is the One who brings meaning to my life. I’m thankful that He agrees with Lewis that we hold great value and caring for one another is an essential part of experiencing this – especially when bad things happen to good people.

We are all entitled to our viewpoints, but today I wanted to offer a biblically based one. It won’t be the most comprehensive or written by an author with a doctorate – BUT it will be heavily based on scripture, and my own decade+ journey with chronic illness – and this, I believe gives me a bit of street cred in this area.

Only when you walk through the depths and confront this question in the fire, that in the flames, you can begin to come to terms with and gain peace about it – YES, even from within it. It can be the trouble of life, that sets the scene for us to engage with the truth and find our own place of peace. This article is how I found mine.

Clarifying “Good People”

Just so we are on the same page, my belief is this, that: By ourselves, there are no good people – only a good God.

To be wholly good, we would have to be perfect. We would never have done bad things ourselves. We would have always made the right decisions. We would have always been loving in every situation. Our actions and thoughts would have always been for ours and others’ good.

I don’t know about you – but I am imperfect. In fact, I am a bit of a mess, when it comes to goodness. I know this about myself, and if I stayed in this place, it would be quite the sad ending. Thankfully, I believe that it is just the beginning!

The good news is that God (who is wholly good,) sent His Son Jesus to give God a filter to look at and connect with us as if we were good.

When God looks at you, and when He looks at me, He sees us as who we are, not what we do. He sees us through Jesus, because when Jesus died on the cross – all those things that made us bad, our failings, our upsets, our shame, guilt, broken bits, were nailed right up there with him. They died with Him. We don’t need to carry those things anymore.

He did this for you, for me, and for those who have gossipped, stolen, killed and every other bad thing. He did this for those who save kittens from trees, tend to the homeless on the streets of Calcutta, and give a life of service for those who can’t fend for themselves. Jesus came for both.

When we ask, Why do bad things happen to good people? – I wonder if the good people part is somewhat irrelevant – Are we really asking, Why do bad things happen at all? For me, this was the case.

Reasons: Why do Bad Things Happen to Good People?

1. We make poor choices (free will)

Galatians 6:5-18 talks about this. ‘A person reaps what they sow.’ Meaning what we put out into the world, can either plant good things, or bad. We eat the fruit of what we plant.

Let’s give real-world examples of this:

Negative example: Just before my body broke down, I was doing a LOT. In fact I was doing so much that year, that I didn’t have time and ignored the intense headache I had for six weeks prior. It was only after the body collapse that I saw how much I had neglected my health. This send me into a tailspin of fear, troubling health symptoms. I had ignored the amber lights my body had been sending me, until it couldn’t push through any more. I was indeed reaping what I had sown.

Positive example: My key problems were hydration, low blood pressure and inflammation. To combat this, I made some decisions with my doctor to eat gluten, dairy, sugar free, and increase my water/electrolyte intake. Over time, I noted my body was less bloated and puffy, I had more energy, and the headaches decreased. I had less body crashes, and could reengage with more elements of ‘normal life.’ I was reaping what I had sown.

Why do bad things happen to good people? Because we make good or poor choices.

Here are a few verses for further study about this area:

• Galatians 6:7-8
• Proverbs 22:8
• 2 Corinthians 9:6
• Job 4:8
• Hosea 8:7
• Hosea 10:12

Stories and Passages

• The Parable of the Sower: Matthew 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20, Luke 8:4-15
• The Parable of the Weeds: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
• Jacob and Laban: Genesis 29-31
• David and Bathsheba: 2 Samuel 11-12

2. Others make poor choices that impact us (free will)

The reality is, we all live in community with one another, in families, friendship circles, workplaces and more. We are people who are still working ourselves and others out, and as such, we will make mistakes. The Bible talks about how my actions can either cause others to be sharpened (Proverbs 27:17) or cause others to stumble (Romans 14:13).

A biblical example of this is found in the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis. God told them not to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, but Eve listened to the serpent (first cause of stumble). Eve then encouraged Adam to take a bite (flow-on of stumble).

Sometimes our parents mucked up, our friends let us down, a boss isn’t honorable. Bad things happen in all these areas, and as we live as part of a kind of village and many of the decisions each one of us makes, has the potential to impact another within that village.

Why do bad things happen to good people? Because others make poor choices.

Here are some further bible verses and examples for further study.

• Genesis 3:17-19
• Exodus 20:5
• Joshua 7:1-26 (The Sin of Achan)
• 2 Samuel 24:10-17 (David’s Census)
• Jonah 1:11-12

3. The enemy/devil

The Bible doesn’t shy away from warning us about the enemy of this world -and of us. John 10:10 tells us this, “The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full!”

When bad things occur, they often involve stealing from us, killing, or destroying something we care about. Job’s life is the perfect example of this; losing his children, home, livestock, health in a short space of time – this man had plenty of bad things; but don’t let the start of the story leave you in that hopeless space. Job stuck by God’s side within the bad things, and the Ultimate Redeemer ended up blessing Job’s socks off.

Why do bad things happen to good people? Because there is an enemy, and he wants to keep us fas from God as possible.

Here are some further verses and passages if you wish to look further into this:

Job 1:6-12

John 10:10

1 Peter 5:8

Ephesians 6:12

2 Corinthians 4:4

Luke 13:16

Revelation 12:9-12

James 4:7

2 Corinthians 11:14

Luke 22:31

4. We live in a world that isn’t heaven (-yet!)

1 John 5:19 NIV says this, “We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.”

We live in a world that is fallen. The world isn’t perfect, sin entered the world through Adam and Eve, and has been experiencing an imperfect version ever since.

If we stayed here, then it could feel quite the defeated place, but good news everyone – it doesn’t stop here.

John 16:33 NIV and one of my all-time favorite verses says this, to put it all in perspective, “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.”

We aren’t imprisoned to the enemy of the world, or by those things that come under the banner of trouble, trial or bad things anymore – Thank you Jesus! We are friends and children of the One who has overcome the lot! I especially loved telling of the times God reassured me in my own bad things, through my stories on this site and books.

Why do bad things happen to good people? Because we live in a fallen world.

Here are some biblical references for your further study:

• Ecclesiastes 9:11
• John 16:33
• Romans 8:18
• 1 Peter 5:10
• James 1:2-4
• Revelation 21:4
• Psalm 34:19
• 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
• Romans 5:3-5
• Job 1:21
• Bible Stories:
• Job’s Trials (Book of Job)
• Joseph’s Hardships (Genesis 37-50)
• Daniel in the Lions’ Den (Daniel 6)
• Paul’s Sufferings (2 Corinthians 11:23-28)
• Jesus’ Crucifixion
• Lazarus and the Rich Man (Luke 16:19-31)
• Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the Fiery Furnace (Daniel 3)
• Genesis 50:20 says, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done – the saving of many lives.”

5. Good and Bad things happen to all

In Matthew 5:45 tpt it tells us, “He is kind to all by bringing the sunrise to warm and rainfall to refresh whether a person does what is good or evil.”

Knowing that we are not wholly perfect, and if we look around, we can see that good things happen to people who make bad choices. And bad things happen to those who do good. It doesn’t seem fair, but it is part of God’s nature to bless both.

I love and struggle with this verse. How about you?

I struggle, because I wish good things happened to good people. I naturally want good  behaviour to be rewarded – I am not entirely sure whether others feel this way, or if it is the primary teacher, Mumma heart in me. Lol.

I Love this verse, because it highlights the truth of God’s loving nature and heart. No one is beyond His love. And for those who have hurt me, done damage along the way to me, made choices that have impacted me or my loved ones – this means that there is redemption available for them. There may come a day when those who did bad things, see the error of their ways, and choose good instead. That is a very good thing.

The same goes for me in my choices. The love of God, like the sunshine and refreshment of rain is available to me, and to others – despite our choices.

Why do bad things happen to good people? Because good and bad things happen to all, but God’s nature is so loving and gracious!

Moving Beyond “Why?”

The Limitations of Asking “Why?”

When bad things happen, it IS hard to move forward. There is a natural and healthy process required, to sift through the mess. But to remain in this space of – why… in my humble opinion and experience, keeps me bound to the past and unable to move forward.

I don’t say this lightly, as I have been there, but remaining in the why space, steals from my present and my future.

When I first became unwell, Why was the only question I asked. Why me, why did this happen, why don’t the doctors know the answers?

Asking Better Questions

New questions arose, as I journaled with God about all the bad things that were happening:

• What now?
• Where to from here?
• What’s the next step?
• How do You see this, Lord?
• Is there anything I can do?
• Is there anything You want to do for me?
• Who do You want to be for me in this?

It was only when I got to this last question, that peace began to infiltrate my heart – and it was lighter and more refreshing.

Getting Okay with Mystery

In life, there are endless mysteries. Have a little think about those things you wished you knew the answer to.

People, places, things, processes, creation – there are so many things I don’t know. How about you?

When we don’t know something it can bring us worry (– but that’s a whole other topic.)

Making peace with mystery is an essential part of moving forward when bad things happen to us, or those we care about. Some things I will never know the answer to, but I know the One who does know, and HIs heart is always for my good. Sometimes that means I never know, and that is okay with me.

Here are some further study references for you:

• Deuteronomy 29:29
• Isaiah 55:8-9
• Romans 11:33-34
• 1 Corinthians 13:12
• Proverbs 3:5-6
• Ecclesiastes 3:11
• Job 38-41 (God’s response to Job)

• Stories illustrating acceptance of mystery:
• Abraham’s call (Genesis 12:1-4)
• Moses and the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-14)
• Gideon’s fleece (Judges 6:36-40)

God’s Promises in Difficult Times

God’s promises were like beautiful gifts to me in times of struggle.When bad things happen, I have two choices:

1. Turn away from God.
2. Turn toward God.

When I turn away from God and walk it alone, fear, hopelessness, loneliness and pain are the fruit. As I turned toward Him, I had less pain and fear, and my hope and peace levels increased. By reminding myself of God’s promises, I plant something good within, and God loves to build upon this with me.

Here are just some of God’s promises if we remain faithful through bad times:

• Romans 8:28 – All things work together for good
• Philippians 4:6-7 – Peace that surpasses understanding
• James 1:12 – Crown of life for those who persevere
• 2 Corinthians 12:9 – God’s grace is sufficient
• Isaiah 41:10 – God will strengthen and help us
• Psalm 34:17-19 – The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
• Matthew 11:28-30 – Rest for the weary
• John 16:33 – Peace in Christ despite worldly troubles
• 1 Peter 5:10 – God will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you
• Revelation 21:4 – Future promise of no more tears or pain
• There are also soooooo many wonderful books that help us read, claim and declare biblical promises. My go to book in this place (one that I carried around my handbag for a decade, and gave away countless copies is found here.

Understanding God’s Nature

If I view God as a lightning bolt wielding punisher, who wants me to suffer and feel the depths of my sin – then I will view the world and whatever happens in it, through that filter.

My knowledge and experience of this is that God couldn’t be further from this description. In fact, He gave us Jesus as a human representative of His heart. Do yourself a favor and read about Jesus. Ask Holy Spirit to reveal God’s nature through the actions and words of Jesus.

When we understand God is wholly good, and is for us – not against us, bad things happening start to be put into perspective.

God is wholly good and is for your good. Rest assured, He doesn’t delight when bad things happen to us. In fact, the Bible tells us He collects every tear (psalms 56:8) That’s how much He cares about what we’re going through.

Here are some other scriptures to look at.

Psalm 34:18 – “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Matthew 11:28-30 – Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Psalm 23 – The entire psalm speaks of God’s care, particularly verse 4: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.”

Romans 8:28 – “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.”

The story of Job – This book deals with suffering and God’s ultimate care for Job despite his trials.

The story of Joseph (Genesis 37-50) – Joseph experiences betrayal and hardship but ultimately sees God’s care and purpose.

Psalm 147:3 – “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

As we face life’s challenges, let’s remember to trust in God’s goodness, seek His perspective, and hold onto His promises. While we may not always understand why bad things happen, we can find comfort and strength in God’s unchanging love and presence. There are many ways we can respond to bad things happening to good people, I wrote about one such time here.

We can trust that He is trustworthy and Ultimate Redeemer of all things. Those redemptive outcomes aren’t always what we in part had hoped for, but often they bring a much deeper, wider and richer gift, than anything we might have dreamt of.

Have you experienced God’s goodness in the midst of difficult times? We’d love to hear your story. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let’s encourage one another in faith and hope.