Why do bad things happen to good people?
Job asked this question thousands of years ago. Discover what the Bible reveals about suffering and justice.
15 Bible studies address this question
What the Bible Says
These Bible studies explore Scripture passages that speak to this question. Each study will give you insight and practical application.
Suffering for Doing Good
Peter addresses marriage relationships, emphasizing wives' gentle and quiet spirits and husbands' considerate treatment of wives. He then encourages all believers to be ready to explain their hope, sh...
Taste and See That the LORD Is Good
David praises God for delivering him from fear, inviting others to taste God's goodness and learn the fear of the LORD that leads to life.
When Enemies Attack: A Prayer for Justice
Psalm 109 is David's raw prayer against betrayal and false accusation, calling on God to vindicate the innocent and judge the wicked.
Refined but Not as Silver
God addresses stubborn Israel: He declared things beforehand so they couldn't credit idols. He has refined them, though not like silver. For His own name's sake He delays His anger and will redeem the...
The Trial, Crucifixion, and Burial of Jesus
Jesus stands before Pilate and Herod, innocent yet condemned. He carries His cross to Golgotha, is crucified between criminals, and forgives His executioners. The repentant thief receives paradise. Je...
Guarding the Gospel
Paul writes from prison to encourage Timothy, calling him to fan into flame his spiritual gift, not be ashamed of the gospel or of Paul, and guard the good deposit of faith through the Holy Spirit's p...
Godlessness in the Last Days
Paul warns of terrible times characterized by self-love and false religion, points to his own example of persecution endured, and reminds Timothy that all Scripture is God-breathed and equips believer...
Running the Race
Surrounded by witnesses, believers must run with perseverance, fixing eyes on Jesus. God disciplines His children for their good. The chapter contrasts Sinai's terror with Zion's grace and warns again...
Living Stones and Royal Priests
Believers are called to grow spiritually like newborn babies, becoming living stones built into a spiritual house. As a chosen people and royal priesthood, they are to live such good lives among pagan...
Letters to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira
Jesus addresses four churches: Ephesus has lost first love despite good works; Smyrna faces tribulation but is spiritually rich; Pergamum holds fast despite Satan's throne nearby; Thyatira has love an...
The Suffering Servant
The most detailed messianic prophecy in the Old Testament describes the Servant who would be despised, rejected, and pierced for our transgressions. He bears the sins of many, is crushed for our iniqu...
The Fall of Humanity
The serpent tempts Eve, humanity falls into sin, and the consequences ripple through creation. Yet even in judgement, God promises a Redeemer.
A New Beginning
God remembers Noah, the waters recede, and Noah worships. God promises never to destroy the earth by flood again, establishing seasonal stability.
Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Apostles
Jesus commissions His twelve apostles with authority and instructions for their mission. He warns of persecution, calls for fearless witness, and teaches that following Him may divide even families—...
More Than Conquerors
Romans 8 is often called the greatest chapter in the Bible. It takes us from no condemnation to no separation, revealing the security and hope we have in Christ.
Still Have Questions?
The Bible has answers for every aspect of life. Keep exploring, or reach out to our pastoral team for personal guidance.