“Why does God allow the innocent to suffer?”

In the account of Job, the Bible says that he “was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil” (Job 1).  It was when everything was taken from him, including his most precious possessions - his children, that Job questioned God, “have I sinned? What have I done to You, O watcher of man?  Why have You set me as Your target, so that I am a burden to myself?” 

(Job 7:20).

There is so much suffering in our world.  Some suffer as a result of bad choices and choices of others.  Some the result of sinful actions. But what about the innocent.  Job was innocent and yet he suffered so much loss.

Yes, I know that our world is fallen, and all creation suffers as a result, but what about the suffering of a child?  My heart goes out to all those in Texas that have lost loved ones.  Many at the christian children’s camp lost their lives and many were swept away in the flood - yet to be found!  I cannot even imagine what the parents, grandparents, guardians of those children and the community are going through!  When we think about the innocent, children come to mind - such heartbreak!  Children are as close to innocence as anything is this world!  A parent shouldn’t have to bury their child, and especially is such a tragic way!

God created everything out of nothing!  God holds the stars and planets in place.  He holds eternity in His hands!  He certainly could prevent innocent children from suffering!?  Why doesn’t He?!  I don’t possess the answer to that question and if anyone says they do - run!  I do know that without God in our lives we cannot get through such heartache.  I know too that if you have Christ in your life you will get through the tragedies of this life even if you don’t know the why?  I don’t know why God allowed my little brother to commit suicide years ago, but I know I got through it with the Lord’s help.  I have never gotten over it but I’ve gotten through it!  And you will too with God’s help!  Whatever circumstance you are facing, look to the Lord Jesus Christ to help you get through it.  It is okay to be angry.  It is okay to have questions.  It is okay to cry out to God - why?!  But don’t blame the heartache of this life on God.  Stand upon His promises.  The devil will tell you to give up on God, don’t do it!  Jesus has gone to make all things new.  Someday the Bible says there will be no more death nor goodbyes!  When others say “curse God and die”, hold on to God instead and draw closer to Him.  May we like Job come to the conclusion, “naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there.  The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD!

Let’s stand united as “One Nation Under God” and pray for all those affected by the loss and devastation in Texas.  Pray for all those coming along side to help in rescue, search and rebuilding the community and affecting lives for eternity.

Rodney