Read through the Bible in 2 years: Job 22; Psalm 73
Have you ever struggled with why “bad things happen to good people”? I believe the simple answer to that question is, “Truly there are no good people. We’re all downright bad. None of us deserve anything that the Lord so kindly gives to us.
But, today when reading Job 22, I found myself thinking about this question, “Why do good things happen to bad people?”
They said to God, “Depart from us,” and
Job 22:17-18a ESV
“What can the Almighty do to us?”
Yet He filled their houses with good things…
Why does God allow the sun to shine and the rain to fall on both the evil and the good, like we read in Matthew 5:45? Why is the LORD is good to all and have mercy on all that he has made? (Psalm 145:9)
Why do the wicked prosper like we considered in yesterday’s reading of Job 21?
In Psalm 73, Asaph wrestled with these same questions. He found himself envious of the wicked, but as he pondered his life on earth and his life in eternity compared to theirs, he realized how much better off he is.
"Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory.
Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
For behold, those who are far from you shall perish; you put an end to everyone who is unfaithful to you.
But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, that I may tell of all your works." - Psalm 73:23-28 ESV
When we’re wrestling with all these why’s, let’s speak truth to ourselves and remind ourselves of what we know is true.
Will you pray with me?
Heavenly Father,
You are the strength of my heart and my portion forever. I would rather have one day with You than a thousand apart from You. For me, truly, it is good to be near You. You are my refuge and strength and guide.
Truly, You are good to both the evil and the good. You are good and gracious. And I am not.
Make me more like You. Conform me into Your likeness. May Your glory and goodness shine brightly out of my life. Use me as Your mouthpiece. I want to tell of all Your works for You are so, so good. Your steadfast love is better than life.
In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
Teach What is Good 