Throughout the centuries, people have asked the question, “Why is there so much evil in the world?” Let’s ponder that in a moment. 

The recent events in the Middle East beginning with the unprovoked attack of the militant Hamas terrorists (Sunni branch of Islam) as they slaughtered innocent Israeli men, women and children in various kibbutzim by crossing over from the northern border of Gaza into the territory of Israel is very unsettling to say the least.   

Particularly graphic, was seeing repeated images of a child’s bed covered in blood and the mention that many people were decapitated and killed in these raids. It’s one thing to "professionally" engage in warfare, but to assassinate innocents all in the name of a cause is barbaric beyond belief. And the taking of hostages including many young people and children by Hamas to use for negotiation and torture is absolutely senseless! 

With the real time reportage of these atrocities, the world once again is witnessing the continuing conflict that has its origins in biblical times.  

“O God, do not keep silence; do not hold your peace or be still, O God! For behold, your enemies make an uproar; those who hate you have raised their heads. They lay crafty plans against your people; they consult together against your treasured ones. They say, 'Come, let us wipe them out as a nation; let the name of Israel be remembered no more!'” Psalm 83:1-4 ESV 

The struggle and fight for sacred land has cost countless lives and treasure through the millennia. The actions of Hamas’ mission since its formation is to create a Palestinian nation-state that includes their current strip of land. However, their ultimate goal is to acquire, by any means necessary, the entire nation of Israel. If this is accomplished, they will demand that the people of Israel conform to their Islamic customs and beliefs. 

This posturing and violence have Iran’s full support. Taking advantage of events on the southern border has emboldened Hezbollah (the Lebanese Shia Islamist political party and Jihadi militant group) in the north. They have now launched numerous strikes of their own into Israel.  

The hatred and antipathy for Israel is certainly surging not only in this region, but elsewhere around the world. Matters of life and death are escalating due in large part to the weak leadership of many of our elected leaders in Washington, D.C. 

When Palestinian Arab and pro-Iranian factions are seen praising the actions of evil, it is repulsive. Anti-Israeli and anti-Western sentiment, even in the United States (including many in academia and our own government) is troublesome. Many are crying for a cease fire but still have not condemned these horrific acts of violence. 

Where is the international outrage over this brutality? More striking; the United Nations has been silent in denouncing what is happening now in the Middle East!  

Back to the first question: Got Questions reveals, “Evil exists in our world because some of God’s creatures rebelled and continue to rebel against Him.” In other words, since the very beginning, some angelic beings and later all of humanity have turned away from God. The end result is that Creation has been paying the price ever since. This rebellion includes the free will choice of choosing between good and evil. And, until the end of the age sadly, it’s going to get a whole lot worse before it gets better. 

Jesus said that in this life you will have trouble but He also wanted us to understand that He overcame evil with good. Hear these words from our Lord: 

“I’ve told you these things to prepare you for rough times ahead. There will even come a time when anyone who kills you will think he’s doing God a favor. They will do these things because they never really understood the Father. I’ve told you these things so that when the time comes and they start in on you, you’ll be well-warned and ready for them. I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.” (Selected verses of John 16, MSG)

Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Genesis 12:1-3 ESV 

It’s difficult to watch what is happening not only in the Middle East but elsewhere around the globe. In many cases, we can be disheartened and conclude that the Trinity is asleep while all this brutality toward humanity goes unnoticed by the Author of Life. That can’t be further from the truth. 

“…he who watches over Israel will neither slumber or sleep.” Ps 121:1 NIV 

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem (and Israel)! May they be secure who love you!” Ps 122:6 ESV (emphasis mine)

Joe Wagley is a Realtor and broker in Lenawee County. He is the owner of The Wagley Group Real Estate Advisors in Adrian and Manitou Beach. He can be reached at 517-265-6000 or at [email protected].