Biblical Answer

The Point of Having Faith in the Face of Adversity

Having faith in God when bad things keep happening can be a challenging and puzzling experience. The question of why God allows evil and suffering in the world is a classic one, and there is no easy answer. However, the Bible teaches that faith is not about understanding or explaining God's actions, but about trusting in His goodness and sovereignty. In the face of adversity, faith is not about having all the answers, but about having a relationship with a God who is greater than our circumstances.

In this sense, faith is not about ignoring or denying the reality of evil and suffering, but about living in hope and expectation of God's redemption and restoration. As the Bible says, "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" (Romans 8:28). This verse does not suggest that God causes evil or suffering, but rather that He is working to bring good out of it, even when we cannot see it. This is the theology of hope, which is central to the Christian faith. Faith is not about having a magic solution to all our problems, but about trusting in a God who is working to bring about His good purposes in our lives.

In the midst of adversity, faith can be a source of strength and comfort. It can help us to see that our circumstances are not the end of the story, but rather a part of a larger narrative of God's redemption and restoration. As the Bible says, "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). Faith is not about ignoring the difficulties of life, but about trusting in a God who is working to bring about His good plans and purposes in our lives. By trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty, we can find the strength and courage to face our challenges and to live in hope and expectation of His redemption and restoration.