Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? A Biblical Perspective

Romans 8:28 (KJV) – "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

One of the most difficult and heartbreaking questions people often ask is: Why do bad things happen to good people? If God is loving and just, why does He allow suffering, loss, and tragedy in the lives of those who are faithful to Him?

The Bible provides insight into this question, particularly in Isaiah 57:1 (KJV), which says:

"The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it to heart: and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come."

This verse suggests that sometimes God removes the righteous from the world to spare them from greater evil or future suffering. While it may seem unfair or painful, God is always working in ways beyond human understanding. Through biblical examples and spiritual principles, we will explore why suffering occurs, what purpose it serves, and how God ultimately brings healing, justice, and eternal peace.

1. The Reality That Even Good People Suffer

Throughout history and within Scripture, righteous individuals have faced trials and suffering. Being faithful to God does not exempt anyone from hardship.

Illustration: Job – The Suffering of a Righteous Man

Job was a man of integrity, devotion, and righteousness, yet he suffered immensely. Satan challenged Job’s faith, arguing that if Job lost everything, he would curse God. With God’s permission, Job experienced the loss of:

His wealth

His children

His health

Job 1:21 (KJV) – "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord."

Despite his suffering, Job remained faithful, even though he did not understand why he was facing such hardship. His story reveals that pain is not always a punishment—sometimes, it is a test of faith or a tool for spiritual growth.

2. God May Remove the Righteous Before Greater Evil Arrives

Isaiah 57:1 reminds us that sometimes God allows the righteous to perish or suffer to spare them from future pain. Though this is difficult to accept, it demonstrates His mercy and protection.

Illustration: Enoch – Taken Before Hardship

Enoch was a man who walked faithfully with God, and instead of allowing him to experience death or the increasing wickedness of the world, God took him directly into His presence.

Genesis 5:24 (KJV) – "And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him."

Though premature death often seems tragic, God sometimes takes His people before greater suffering arrives. It is possible that when good people pass away unexpectedly, God is sparing them from a future hardship they could not bear.

3. Suffering Can Be a Tool for Growth and Strengthening Faith

Sometimes, hardship is not about punishment—it is about refining character, deepening trust in God, and preparing believers for greater purpose.

Illustration: Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh

The Apostle Paul spoke of a thorn in the flesh, a trial that God refused to remove, despite his prayers.

2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV) – "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."

Paul’s suffering was not because of sin, but rather to teach him dependence on God’s power rather than his own strength.

4. The Wicked Seem to Prosper While the Righteous Suffer

Many struggle with the fact that evil people succeed while faithful believers endure pain. The Bible acknowledges this frustration but urges patience and trust in divine justice.

Illustration: Asaph’s Crisis in Psalm 73

Asaph saw wicked people thriving while the righteous suffered. He nearly lost faith until he remembered:

Psalm 73:17 (KJV) – "Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end."

Though it seems unfair now, God’s justice always prevails in the end.

5. Suffering Produces Greater Purpose and Testimony

Pain is not always meaningless. God often uses suffering to create testimonies that inspire and guide others.

Illustration: Joseph – From Betrayal to Purpose

Joseph was betrayed, enslaved, and falsely imprisoned, yet his trials led to God using him to save nations.

Genesis 50:20 (KJV) – "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive."

Joseph’s suffering was part of a greater plan—sometimes, our trials are stepping stones to something bigger.

6. God’s Comfort Is Always Present in Trials

Even when life feels unfair, God never abandons His people. He walks with them through every difficulty.

Illustration: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego – God’s Presence in the Fire

When the three Hebrew men were thrown into the fiery furnace, God did not remove the fire—instead, He walked with them inside it.

Daniel 3:25 (KJV) – "Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire... and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God."

Though trials come, God remains present, offering peace and strength.

Conclusion: Trusting God’s Wisdom Amid Suffering

While bad things happen to good people, God’s Word assures us that He is still in control.

Some suffering strengthens faith.

Some pain removes believers from greater evil.

Some trials prepare people for greater purpose.

Isaiah 57:1 reminds us that sometimes, the righteous are taken away before greater suffering arrives—not as punishment, but as mercy.

Though pain exists, God’s love never fails. His wisdom is greater than ours, and He promises that all things work together for good.

Dr. D. Devon Griffin, Author

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