It is good to hear all the votes. I agree. I only hope that we can make it clear to all. Sometimes we need to hear that God is good even more when things are going Bad.

Again and again I have reminded myself of the experience of Job, who if any person did, had cause to wonder about the question under discussion. He came through and in the end got no explanation, just the assurance that God was there and still in control.

Is that what faith is - acknowledging that God is good in everything?

No matter how horrible the situation, including death, I believe that Abba knows the end from the beginning... and as such is in a better state to judge what is necessary at any given moment in time.

I believe He will give me the strength to bear whatever He brings me to, whether it be the death of a beloved family member (I have already experienced such) or friend. Even in my darkest trials, I believe Him to be good.

His goodness toward me is not limited to the here and now... in fact much of what He brings me to in the here and now could be construed by human terms as "bad". His goodness toward me is for all eternity. And the "now" means nothing compared to eternity with Abba and the goodness prepared for me there.

Again taking Jesus as our example, and understanding that as Blood Covenanted children of the King, Abba cannot act towards us any differently than He did toward Jesus, then realize that in order for Abba's plans to come to fruition sometimes we must suffer and even die, that those who might otherwise be lost might be saved.

And knowing the end from the beginning as He does, just perhaps that one who is saved might be ourself! I will not rail against One who has nothing but my eternal well-being as His most prime motivator. And if my trials in anyway prove His innocence of all the Adversary's charges... then bring it on Abba. Just give me Your strength to stand for You.

Clio

Clio ... you are so right. This is the key. Our life on this sinful earth is not what matters. It is our eternal life that matters and God knows what is best for the LONG term.

My husband died just over two years ago. Even in that, I can say God is good. I don't understand at all why, but I know He is good, and I can see His hand in what happened then, the timing, and the circumstances. It is easier to understand God's goodness in happy outcomes, but important to recognize His goodness in trying circumstances.

Thank you LynnDel ... This is exactly my point. We do need to praise God in all things. IF we just praise God when good things happen then it gives the wrong impression.