Why Do Bad Things Happen in the World?

We’ve all had those moments when the headlines feel too heavy, the diagnosis comes too soon, or the loss cuts too deep. It’s only natural to ask, Why? Why do bad things happen in a world created by a good God?

I’ve asked that question myself more than once. And maybe you have too—sitting alone in the quiet after everyone has gone to bed, staring at the ceiling, wondering how suffering fits into the story.

The truth is, we live in a fallen world. When God created the heavens and the earth, He declared it good—perfect, whole, and without pain. But sin entered through human choice, and ever since, we’ve lived with the ripple effects: sickness, injustice, war, heartbreak. Romans 8:22 says, “For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.” Creation itself longs for redemption.

That doesn’t mean God is distant or indifferent. In fact, it’s the opposite. The cross of Jesus Christ stands as proof that God is not far off when we hurt—He stepped into our suffering. He bore injustice, betrayal, and death so that suffering would never have the last word.

Still, in the middle of tragedy, those answers can feel like they live on paper, not in our hearts. So what do we do with our questions? We bring them honestly to Him. The psalmists cried out in confusion and pain, and God never turned them away. He won’t turn you away either.

Bad things happen because the world is broken. But God is in the business of redemption. He takes what was meant for evil and turns it for good (Genesis 50:20). I’ve seen Him do it—in my own life, in the lives of people I love, and in the testimony of countless others who have walked through fire and found Him faithful.

So when you look at the news and wonder why, remember this: God has not abandoned His world. Even when the night feels long, the dawn is coming. Revelation 21:4 promises a day when “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain.”

Until that day, hold onto hope. Love your neighbor. Be a light in the darkness. And know that our God is still writing the story—one of restoration, mercy, and unshakable love.