Understanding Injustice: Why Doesn’t God Intervene?
In a world filled with injustice, suffering, and pain, many people find themselves grappling with a profound question: "Why doesn’t God do something about the evil we see around us?" This question resonates deeply, especially when we witness acts of violence, abuse, and discrimination. It’s a question that has been asked throughout history and one that continues to challenge our understanding of faith and the nature of God.
The Nature of Injustice
Injustice can take many forms, from global issues like genocide and human trafficking to personal experiences of betrayal and suffering. When we encounter these harsh realities, it’s natural to wonder why a loving and just God would allow such things to happen. This inquiry often leads to a crisis of faith, where individuals question their beliefs and the very existence of God.
The Bible acknowledges this struggle. In the book of Psalms, the psalmist cries out, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (Psalm 13:1). This verse captures the essence of human frustration and the longing for divine intervention in times of distress.
The Ideal of Justice
At the core of our questioning lies an inherent understanding of justice. We all possess an internal compass that tells us how the world should be. This sense of right and wrong is not merely a social construct; it is a reflection of a higher moral standard. The Bible teaches that God is the ultimate source of this moral law, and as such, we are all accountable to it.
C.S. Lewis, a renowned Christian author, argued that our ability to recognize injustice points to the existence of a moral lawgiver. He wrote, “Quarreling is trying to show that a man is in the wrong. And there would be no sense in trying to do that unless you and he had some sort of agreement as to what is right and wrong.” This suggests that our desire for justice is rooted in something greater than ourselves.
The Brokenness of Our World
The reality is that our world is broken. The Bible explains that sin entered the world through human disobedience, leading to a state of decay and suffering (Genesis 3). This brokenness affects not only individuals but all of creation. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 8:22, “We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.” This imagery illustrates the deep longing for restoration and justice.
While it may seem overwhelming, it’s essential to recognize that God is not indifferent to our suffering. In fact, the Bible assures us that God is patient and desires for everyone to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). This means that God is giving humanity time to turn away from wrongdoing and seek a relationship with Him.
The Role of Free Will
One of the reasons God may not intervene immediately in every instance of injustice is the gift of free will. God created humans with the ability to choose, which means we can also choose to do harm. If God were to eliminate all evil instantly, it would also mean removing the freedom to choose good. This delicate balance is crucial to understanding why God allows suffering.
Imagine a world where everyone is forced to do good; it would lack authenticity and genuine love. True love and goodness can only exist when individuals have the freedom to choose them. This is why the best possible world is one where people freely choose to do what is right, even in the face of temptation.
The Promise of Justice
While we may not see immediate justice, the Bible promises that one day, God will set all things right. Jesus, who is central to the Christian faith, spoke about a future judgment where every wrong will be made right (Matthew 25:31-46). This promise provides hope for those who suffer and long for justice.
In the meantime, we are called to trust God and live out our faith in practical ways. This means loving our neighbors, standing up against injustice, and showing compassion to those in need. Jesus taught that the greatest commandment is to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37-39). By embodying this love, we can be agents of change in a broken world.
A Call to Action
If you find yourself wrestling with questions about injustice and the nature of God, know that you are not alone. Many have walked this path and found hope and answers through faith. At Centerpoint Church, we invite you to explore these questions with us. Join our community as we seek to understand God’s heart for justice and how we can actively participate in bringing about change in our world.
Whether you’re looking for a place to belong, seeking answers to your questions, or wanting to make a difference, we welcome you to connect with us. Together, we can navigate the complexities of faith and justice, supporting one another as we strive to live out the love of Christ in our lives.
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Ready to take the next step? Centerpoint Church is here to help you connect into a community. Join a Community Group, where you can regularly meet with and study alongside a group of 8-12 others. Or attend a Life Stage gathering: these are purely social gatherings happening throughout the Valrico, Brandon and Tampa Bay Area, designed to help you make social connections with others who are in the same stage of life. Let this be the season you step out of isolation and into community!
