During times of hardship, it is common for people to compare themselves with others. This often leads to the thought, “Why me? ” or “I haven't done anything wrong, so why am I so unlucky?”

Sometimes we even reckon, “If only someone else were to suffer the same misfortune, then I would feel better.” In fact, deep down, we all feel that we should not be the one suffering.

In Job chapter 20, we know that Zophar believed that in real life, good people would be rewarded, and the wicked man would be punished. Job challenged this idea. He suffered greatly, but his friend kept insisting, “You must have done something wrong. Otherwise, God wouldn’t let you suffer.”

But in Job chapter 21, Job makes it very clear: reality isn’t as simple as they claim.

• There are wicked people who are not only fine, but living very well

• They have many children and enjoy peaceful lives

• They die without trouble or fear

• They don’t even acknowledge God and yet boldly say, “We don’t need God”

So, Job raises the big question: If the wicked are living so well, where is God’s justice?

Reflection : Is God still righteous? Yes, God is righteous. But His timetable is different from ours. We want quick results, but God has his own plan. He knows everything and is in control of the whole world. (Isaiah 55:8–9)

We only see the surface Some people may look good on the outside, but their hearts are empty. Others may seem to be struggling, yet they have God’s peace in their heart. Let’s not focus only on appearances, God sees the heart. (1 Samuel 16:7)

Trusting God isn’t about getting quick rewards Just because good people suffer doesn’t mean God doesn’t love them. Sometimes, God uses suffering to shape and grow our faith. He wants us to trust him, even when we don’t understand what he’s doing right now. (Romans 5:3-4)

Prayer : Dear Father, when life is hard and things don’t make sense, help us to trust you. We believe you are always faithful and in control. Even in suffering, we know you still love us. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.