One of the biggest “WHY” questions comes from this angst. We wonder and question how evil could have such power. Why does evil prosper? Why do bad things happen?

There isn’t an easy answer to this question but the gist is the consequence of sin. Sin brings toil and shame. Satan has come to steal, kill, and destroy. We are a product of it and help live it out this world. The world is a cursed place as well as we are a cursed people. Look at these verses from Paul to the church at Rome:

For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together with labor pains until now. Not only that, but we ourselves who have the Spirit as the firstfruits—we also groan within ourselves…Romans 8:22-23 

This question comes from viewing the world through a particular lens and worldview. When we view the world through this temporary lens, we are focused on the immediate struggle and toil. When we see the world through God’s eternal lens, our answer comes a little clearer. When our focus is the almighty God, we see a greater work being accomplished and evil is not triumphing.

Paul finished that section of Romans 8 with an encouragement:

For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together with labor pains until now. Not only that, but we ourselves who have the Spirit as the firstfruits—we also groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. Now in this hope we were saved, but hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees? Now if we ope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience. Romans 8:22-25