Encouragement & Inspiration

Why Does YAH Allow Bad Things to Happen?

The question of why a loving and all-powerful God allows pain, suffering, and evil in the world is as old as humanity itself. For many, the struggles and heartaches of life cause them to doubt God’s presence or goodness. Yet, Scripture provides insight into this profound question, offering both comfort and understanding.

1. The Consequence of Sin

When YAH created the world, it was perfect. Genesis 1:31 tells us, “God saw all that He had made, and it was very good.” However, sin entered the world through Adam and Eve’s disobedience (Genesis 3). Their choice brought brokenness, pain, and death into creation.

Romans 5:12 explains, “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.” The suffering we experience is often the result of living in a fallen world where sin and its consequences have distorted God’s original plan.

2. Trials as a Tool for Growth

For those who trust in YAH, suffering has a purpose. He uses trials to refine, teach, and grow us. James 1:2-4 encourages us to “consider it pure joy” when we face trials because “the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

In the story of Job, we see a man who endured immense suffering. Job never fully understood why he faced such trials, but his suffering ultimately deepened his faith and relationship with YAH. Through trials, God often teaches us to depend on Him, builds our character, and equips us to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

3. God’s Sovereignty and Greater Plan

Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”
God sees the bigger picture, while we often see only the present pain. Sometimes, what seems like a tragedy to us can lead to greater good that we may not fully understand this side of eternity.

4. Free Will and the Nature of Love

Love must be freely given. To truly love, God gave humanity free will—the ability to choose Him or reject Him. With that choice, however, came the possibility of sin and its consequences. Yet even amidst the chaos of human choices, YAH’s love remains steadfast (Romans 8:38-39).

To the Young Man Struggling with Faith

To someone like my daughter’s boyfriend, who has turned away from belief because of tragedy, it’s essential to approach with compassion and understanding. Many heartbreaking situations happened in his family when he was young, and it’s natural to ask, “Why would God allow this?”

1. It’s Not Your Fault

First, let him know that he is not to blame for any of it. Psalm 34:18 assures us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” His pain matters to YAH, and blaming oneself or God is a burden we are not meant to carry.

2. God Understands Suffering

God is not indifferent to our pain. In fact, He entered into our suffering through Yeshua (Jesus). Hebrews 4:15 tells us, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet He did not sin.” Yeshua experienced rejection, betrayal, and even death, showing that God is with us in our darkest moments.

3. Hope Beyond the Pain

Explain that while we may not understand why tragedies happen, YAH promises that suffering is not the end of the story. Revelation 21:4 gives hope: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Encourage him to seek God not for immediate answers but for peace and healing. Share stories of those who have found redemption and purpose in their pain. Offer to walk alongside him in his journey of faith, praying that YAH would reveal Himself in a personal and transformative way.

Conclusion

The presence of suffering in the world is a mystery we may never fully comprehend. However, Scripture assures us that YAH is loving, just, and present, even in our pain. For those who seek Him, He offers hope, healing, and the promise of a future free from suffering. As Romans 8:28 reminds 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.”

For anyone struggling with faith, remember: YAH is not afraid of your questions or doubts. Approach Him honestly, and He will meet you with His unchanging love and truth.