Let me assure you that God is not responsible for the evil in the world, nor will He ever do anything evil or wrong. The Bible says, “His works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4).

Nor does God ever tempt us to do evil or make us do anything wrong. Not only would that be against His perfect nature, but it also would defeat His plans for us—plans for good and not evil. Admittedly God hasn’t told us everything we’d like to know about evil and why it exists—but one thing is clear: God is not the author of evil, nor does He give in to its allure. The Bible says, “God cannot be tempted by evil” (James 1:13).

Ultimately evil comes from Satan, who is absolutely opposed to God and to everything good. Sometimes Satan’s works are very open and obvious—but more often he works behind the scenes, deceiving and manipulating people and events in ways we may not realize. No wonder Jesus labeled him “a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44).

But evil also comes from within us—within our own hearts and minds. When we do wrong, we can’t blame anyone but ourselves—for we have chosen to turn our backs on God and go our own way. This is why we need Christ, for only He can forgive our sins and give us the strength to do what is right. Have you committed your life to Him?