For Christians in the midst of a crisis, the primary focus should not be assigning blame but being salt and light. Beyond practical help, there are two particularly pressing questions of faith. The first is, "How could God let such horrid things happen?" The second, "How could we let such horrid things happen?" Both of these questions deal with theodicy: Why does God allow evil to exist? Can't God stop both human and natural evil? If he can, why doesn't he? That these questions arise in every generation shows the enduring nature of our doubt and the magnitude of the question. Both "natural" evil (natural disasters, disease, suffering of animals) and "human" evil (wars, genocides, injustice) mock our ability to make the reality of an omnipotent, loving God sensible in the wake of suffering.
Is Human Sin God's Design?
When Blame Cannot Suffice
As it was in the days of Job, it is wrong to assume that every illness or sudden misfortune must somehow be the fault of the sufferer. Affliction comes to those who don't deserve it. There comes a point where the issue of blame simply must be left aside. Only then can we truly begin to serve those who are suffering. John Stackhouse, summarizing what he calls "the challenge of evil," notes the ultimate impossibility of understanding the plan of God. He argues that trust in God must come first, and only then can we begin to learn to accept his purposes. The inherently subjective and personal nature of the problem serves to keep us humble and avoid pat answers to explain away the pain of others. In the end, he suggests that the question "Where is God when people suffer?" was best answered by Mother Teresa: "God is there, suffering with [them]. The question really is, where are you?" Reflect1. Why is it good and bad that we can't explain God's actions sometimes? 2. How does the Bible teach us to respond to suffering and the victims of tragedy? 3. What are some situations in our church in which we can be in the midst of the suffering our people face?    Start a Fundraising CampaignLearn how to cultivate an atmosphere of giving.  Leading a Group in PrayerPractical insights for anyone who ever guides the prayer time in a corporate setting, from small groups to committees to large prayer gatherings.  Guiding Us Through ChangeGod does not abandon us when the future seems uncertain. Student Group Foundations Answer basic questions, such as who will lead, who will attend, and what will happen.
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