This is a question many wrestle with. Today, we’ll explore what the Bible says about suffering and God’s greater purpose.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Bad Things
What Does The Bible Say About Bad Things That Happen To Good People
John 16:33
“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.”
This verse reminds us that even as believers, we will face trouble and hardships in this world. However, we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus has overcome the world and offers us peace in the midst of our difficulties.
It acknowledges that bad things can happen to good people, but it also offers reassurance that we can find hope and strength in Christ.
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.”
This verse assures us that no matter what bad things happen to us, God can bring good out of them. He has a purpose for those who love Him, and He is actively working in every situation to bring about His good plan.
It reminds us that God is in control and can use even the most challenging circumstances for our ultimate good and His glory.
1 Peter 5:7
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
This verse encourages us to bring our worries and burdens to God. When bad things happen, we can find solace in knowing that God cares deeply for us and wants to carry our burdens.
It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that God is always ready to come alongside us and provide comfort and support.
Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
This passage reassures us that when bad things happen, God hears the cries of the righteous and delivers them from their troubles.
It reminds us that God is near to those who are hurting and brokenhearted, and He is their source of healing and rescue.
James 1:2-4
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
This verse challenges us to view trials and hardships as opportunities for growth and faith development.
It teaches us that even though bad things happen, God can use them to strengthen our faith, develop perseverance, and bring us to a place of maturity and completeness in Him.
Psalm 73:26
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
This verse acknowledges that when bad things happen, our own strength may fail us. However, it reassures us that God is our eternal source of strength and sustenance.
It reminds us to lean on God’s strength and trust in His provision, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
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.”
This verse offers comfort and assurance that God is with us in times of trouble.
It reminds us that we do not have to be afraid or discouraged because God promises to strengthen, help, and uphold us with His mighty hand.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
This passage acknowledges the hardships and difficulties we may face as believers, but it also declares the resilience and strength we possess through Christ.
It reminds us that while bad things may happen, we are not ultimately defeated or destroyed because God is with us and empowers us to overcome.
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
This verse assures us that no matter what bad things come our way, we can always find refuge, strength, and help in God.
It reminds us of God’s constant presence and His willingness to come to our aid in times of trouble.
Romans 12:12
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
This verse encourages us to maintain a joyful and hopeful attitude, even when bad things happen.
It reminds us to be patient in the midst of affliction and to remain steadfast in our faith through fervent and faithful prayer.
Psalm 55:22
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
This verse urges us to entrust our cares and concerns to God’s care, knowing that He will sustain and protect us.
It assures us that, despite the bad things that may occur, God is our unwavering support and will keep us firm and secure.
2 Timothy 1:7
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
This verse reminds us that we are not meant to live in fear or timidity, even in the face of bad circumstances.
It assures us that as believers, we have been given the Holy Spirit, who empowers us with strength, love, and self-discipline to face any situation with boldness and confidence.
Psalm 9:9-10
“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.”
This passage reassures us that God is a safe place for those who are oppressed or going through difficulties.
It reminds us that when bad things happen, we can trust in God’s faithfulness and take refuge in His unwavering love and protection.
Matthew 5:4
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
This verse acknowledges the pain and grief that can come from bad things happening in our lives.
It assures us that as we mourn, God offers His comfort, solace, and healing, bringing blessings even in the midst of our sorrow.
Psalm 121:1-2
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
This verse reminds us that our help does not come from our circumstances, but from the Lord, who is the Creator of all things.
It redirects our focus to God as the ultimate source of strength and assistance, especially when bad things happen.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
This passage encourages us to bring our worries and anxieties to God through prayer, with a spirit of thanksgiving.
It promises that when we do so, God’s peace, which surpasses human comprehension, will guard our hearts and minds, even in the midst of bad situations.
Psalm 27:1
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”
This verse declares that when bad things happen, we need not be afraid because the Lord is our guiding light and the stronghold of our lives.
It reminds us to place our trust in God, who is mighty to save and protect us from any harm or fear.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
This passage teaches us that in the face of bad circumstances, we can find strength and hope in God’s grace.
It reminds us that our weaknesses and hardships can become opportunities for God’s power to be displayed in and through us.
Psalm 23:4
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
This verse assures us that even in the most challenging and darkest times, we need not be afraid because God is with us.
It reminds us that God’s presence and guidance are sources of comfort and assurance, helping us navigate through the difficulties we face.
1 Peter 4:12-13
“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”
This verse reminds us that as believers, we should not be caught off guard or surprised when bad things happen.
It encourages us to find joy in the midst of suffering, knowing that our participation in Christ’s sufferings will ultimately lead to our future rejoicing in His glory.
Psalm 34:19
“The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”
This verse acknowledges that even righteous individuals may face numerous troubles and challenges throughout life.
However, it assures us that the Lord is faithful to deliver His people from all their troubles, providing hope and assurance in difficult times.
Romans 8:18
“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”
This verse reminds us that the bad things we endure in this life cannot be compared to the future glory that awaits us in Christ.
It encourages us to persevere and find hope in the greater promise of eternal glory and redemption that God has prepared for His children.
Psalm 55:22
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
This verse urges us to entrust our cares and concerns to God’s care, knowing that He will sustain and protect us.
It assures us that, despite the bad things that may occur, God is our unwavering support and will keep us firm and secure.
Matthew 6:34
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
This verse reminds us not to be consumed by worry or anxiety about the future, especially when bad things happen.
It encourages us to trust in God’s faithfulness and provision, taking each day as it comes, knowing that He will carry us through.
When bad things happen to good people, it can be challenging to understand why and how to navigate through the pain and suffering. However, these Bible verses provide encouragement, reassurance, and wisdom in the midst of difficult circumstances. They remind us of God’s faithfulness, presence, and ability to bring good out of even the most challenging situations. As believers, we can find hope, strength, and comfort in knowing that we are not alone in our struggles, that God is actively working in our lives, and that He has a higher purpose for every trial we face. May these verses serve as a source of encouragement and guidance as we navigate the ups and downs of life, trusting in God’s unfailing love and providence.