Why do the wicked prosper and we who are kind, suffer?

I receive many messages and prayer requests through social media asking for intercession for special intentions. They are all heartfelt and sincere and many are urgent. Some people are suffering huge challenges in their lives, and they worry about loved ones, and local, national, and international crises.

Do you ever feel like you are at the end of your tether and that you wish that the difficulties and challenges would stop?

I met two people recently who came to me for blessings, and they are praying that the onslaught of difficulties, complications, and painful challenges will end. For them it seemed to be going on and on. Just when we heal there’s a set-back and it takes a monumental effort to begin again.

A woman asked me on a social media message “Is it selfish for me needing a break, I’m worn out with a difficult family situation.” The simple answer is no, it is not selfish at all, and it may well be exactly what she needs. Another, in tears with challenges in work who sees others being rewarded for bad behaviour while she feels she is punished and ridiculed for her adherence to best practice and honesty. “When will this ever end?”

Read the Book of Job in the Old Testament and see how it seems Job, a faithful servant of God, suffering terribly, has reached his limit and calls out to God in his suffering, exasperation, and exhaustion. He asks; “why do the wicked often go unpunished?” Why who do bad people prosper and those who are righteous suffer? It is a question for the ages.

‘Why do the wicked live on, reach old age, and grow mighty in power? Their children are established in their presence, and their offspring before their eyes. Their houses are safe from fear, and no rod of God is upon them. Their bulls breed without fail, and their cow claves and never miscarries…’

(Job 21: 7-10)

But things change for the better. Gold is tested in fire. The pruned plant bears the best fruit.

We’ve got to trust that things are about to change, and that God will make all things new for us. Jesus suffered misunderstanding, abuse, lies, and violence, and he was mocked, scourged, and crucified. He understands the heartfelt need for justice.

Trust me, your luck will change. Night is darkest just before the dawn. ‘Don’t give up, one minute before the miracle happens.’ Believe.