Why Does God Let Bad Things Happen? Finding Faith in Life's Storms
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When Life Feels Like a Storm - Why Does God Let Bad Things Happen?
The world often feels like it’s spinning out of control. From personal tragedies to global crises, we all face moments when we wonder: Why does God let bad things happen?
This is a question as old as time, one that humanity has wrestled with through wars, pandemics, loss, and heartache. It’s also a deeply personal question that stirs in our hearts when the storms of life feel overwhelming.
Even the disciples, who walked and talked with Jesus, asked a similar question when they found themselves in a literal storm. Their experience gives us insight into God's presence in our struggles and what He may be teaching us through them.
The Storm That Shakes Us
In Mark 4:35-41, we read about Jesus and His disciples crossing a body of water when a furious storm suddenly arose:
"A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, 'Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?'”
The disciples were gripped by fear, much like many of us are today. Whether it’s fear of losing a loved one, financial uncertainty, or global chaos, storms have a way of shaking us to our core. The disciples' plea—“Don’t you care if we drown?”—echoes the cries of many hearts today: "God, why would You let this happen?"
Why Does God Let Bad Things Happen?
It’s natural to ask this question when life feels overwhelming. While we may not always understand why God allows certain things, Scripture gives us clues about His purposes in the storms of life.
1. God Is Not Absent—He’s With Us in the Storm
The disciples' initial reaction to the storm was fear because they forgot who was with them. Jesus was right there in the boat. He wasn’t indifferent to their plight—He was in their midst, and His very presence was enough to calm the storm.
Truth to Remember: God doesn’t promise a life without storms, but He does promise His presence. In Isaiah 43:2, He says:
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you."
2. Storms Grow Our Faith
Jesus asked the disciples: “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” (Mark 4:40). The storm revealed their lack of trust in Him. Similarly, the storms in our lives can test and strengthen our faith. They force us to rely on God rather than our own understanding or strength.
Truth to Remember: Trials are not pointless—they refine us and deepen our dependence on God. As James 1:2-3 reminds us:
"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."
3. God Uses Storms to Accomplish His Purposes
While we may not always see the bigger picture, God often uses challenges to shape us, redirect us, or prepare us for something greater. The very storms we fear may be the tools He uses to draw us closer to Him or to reveal His glory.
Truth to Remember: Romans 8:28 assures us:
"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."
How to Respond to Life's Storms
When faced with bad things, it’s easy to let fear and doubt take over. But as followers of Christ, we’re called to respond differently. Here are some practical ways to navigate the storms of life:
1. Focus on Who God Is, Not the Storm
When fear rises, shift your focus from the storm to the One who calms it. Remember that God is sovereign, powerful, and good—even when circumstances suggest otherwise.
2. Pray and Seek His Presence
Prayer shifts our perspective from our problems to God’s promises. Spend time in worship and Scripture, inviting His peace to guard your heart and mind.
3. Lean on Your Community
God often works through His people to bring comfort and support. Reach out to your church family, friends, or mentors when you’re struggling.
4. Trust God’s Plan
Even when we don’t understand why something is happening, we can trust that God is in control. Surrender your fears and uncertainties to Him, knowing that He is working for your ultimate good.
Lessons From the Boat
The disciples' story in Mark 4 reminds us that fear doesn’t have to define us. Yes, storms will come. Yes, life will shake us at times. But we serve a Savior who calms the wind and the waves.
In the middle of the storm, Jesus wasn’t distant or unaware—He was in the boat, fully in control. His question to the disciples—“Do you still have no faith?”—was a gentle rebuke, but it was also an invitation. An invitation to trust Him, even when the waves are high.
Why Does God Let Bad Things Happen?
Ultimately, we may not fully understand why God allows suffering in this world. But we do know this:
- God is present in our pain.
- He uses trials to grow and refine us.
- He works all things for our good and His glory.
Life’s storms may feel overwhelming, but they are not the end of the story. They are opportunities to deepen our faith, draw closer to God, and witness His power at work.
Find Peace in the Storm
If you’re struggling with fear, uncertainty, or doubt, remember this: The same God who calmed the storm for the disciples is with you today. He hasn’t left you, and He never will.
Take heart, choose faith over fear, and trust that God’s plan is greater than anything we can imagine. The wind and the waves may rage, but with Jesus in the boat, we will not drown.