I can write this with humility, rather than embarrassment, because I know I am not the only Christian who finds himself or herself in the middle of circumstances and situations that allow one of Satan’s favorite (and most subtle) tools to wedge into our minds—doubting the goodness of God.
We know, despite our periods of doubt, that God is good because it is inherent in His nature. When clouds cover His goodness or darkness hides it completely, I was reminded that, especially in those times, it all comes down to faith. Even strong Christians can slip into the mindset of the world in which we equate God’s goodness with favorable blessings, events, and circumstances in life. That way of thinking is not only unbiblical, it is a scheme of the deceiver.
To process through this malaise, I began to look up and write in my journal many verses that speak specifically to the goodness of God. Here are just a few that I hope encourage your hearts today as they did mine.
David wrote about the goodness of God so many times.
“How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who fear You, which You have wrought for those who take refuge in You, before the sons of men!” (Psalm 31: 19 NASB)
“Give thanks to the LORD for He is good, for His lovingkindness is everlasting.” (Psalm 136: 1 NASB)
The Apostle Paul gave us a wonderful perspective on the goodness of God that speaks to wrapping our minds around things that do not seem or feel good when we experience them.
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8: 28 NASB)
Remember one of the first prayers for mealtime we learned as little children, “God is great. God is good. Let us thank Him…