Questioning God's Goodness

Are you struggling with the question of God’s goodness?

 From a Christian perspective, struggling with the question of God’s goodness is understandable, especially in the face of suffering, unanswered prayers, or injustice.

Acknowledging the Struggle  

Many faithful Christians, including biblical figures like Job, David (in the Psalms), and even Jesus on the cross ("My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" - Matthew 27:46), have wrestled with this question.  

Doubt and struggle are not signs of weak faith but can lead to deeper trust in God.  

Looking at Scripture on God's Goodness  

The Bible affirms that God is good (Psalm 34:8 – "Taste and see that the Lord is good.").  

His goodness is seen in creation (Genesis 1), His provision (Matthew 6:26), and most powerfully in Jesus Christ (John 3:16).  

Addressing Suffering and Evil  

A key challenge to believing in God’s goodness is the presence of suffering. Christianity offers several insights:  

Free Will – God created humans with free will, which allows for love but also the possibility of sin and evil (Deuteronomy 30:19).  

The Fall – The world is broken due to sin (Romans 5:12), but God is working to restore it.  

God’s Purpose in Suffering – Romans 8:28 assures us that God works all things for good for those who love Him. Suffering can refine faith (James 1:2-4).  

Jesus' Suffering – Christianity uniquely teaches that God entered human suffering through Jesus, who experienced betrayal, pain, and death, showing that He is not distant from our struggles (Hebrews 4:15).  

Seeing God's Goodness in Christ  

 The ultimate proof of God's goodness is Jesus Christ. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He shows God’s love, mercy, and justice.  

Even when circumstances seem to say otherwise, we look to the cross as evidence of God's goodness and faithfulness (Romans 5:8).  

Encouraging Trust and Relationship with God  

Faith does not always mean understanding but trusting God’s character even in confusion (Proverbs 3:5-6).  

Encouragement to pray honestly like the Psalms, seek Christian community, and read testimonies of God's faithfulness can help.