Bryant Wright, Founder

“For Him, the evil person has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be put out.”  Proverbs 24:20

I had lunch with a man who mentioned that something was really bugging him.

“I can handle the fact that sometimes bad things happen to good people,” he said. “I understand that God gives us free will, and even good decisions can lead to tough consequences. I’m actually okay with that.”

“So what’s really bothering you?” I asked.

He leaned in a little. “I can’t wrap my mind around why good things happen to bad people. Why do criminals get away with wrongdoing? Why do corrupt leaders gain popularity even after their flaws are exposed? And why is it that an outspoken atheist—who mocks Christians publicly—is allowed to accumulate fame and wealth beyond imagination? Why has he been so blessed?”

I paused for a moment and then said, “Let’s think about this. The man you’re referring to—he’s an atheist, right?” He nodded. “And if I’m remembering correctly, he’s gone through several broken marriages?” Another nod.

“So here is a man with tremendous wealth and public influence, yet his home life has been a revolving door of heartache and instability. And unless he changes his view about Jesus Christ, he will miss the joy of heaven for all eternity. And you call that being blessed?”

I continued, “Let me ask you honestly—despite all his fame and riches, would you trade places with him?”

His answer was instantaneous. “No way. Not even for a second.”

Most of us wouldn’t either.

The Bible warns us not to envy the temporary success of the ungodly. What looks like a “blessing” from the outside can be empty and miserable on the inside. Earthly success without Christ is only temporary. Any “good” that unbelievers enjoy apart from God is short-lived. But the blessings God gives His children—peace, forgiveness, purpose, joy, and the promise of eternal life—are lasting.

So before we envy those who seem to prosper without God, we need to ask: Would I truly want their life? Not just the spotlight—but the soul behind it.

Would you trade places?
Really think about it.

The next time you’re tempted to envy the wicked, remember: their success is temporary, but the hope you have in Christ is eternal.

DIG DEEPER
Read “Why Does God Allow Good Things to Happen to Bad People?” at GotQuestions.org