Bad people

There are bad people.

Human history exposes the barbaric and bestial acts committed by nations, rulers and armies. The 20th century witnessed the mass execution of Jews by Nazi Germany, not to mention innocent civilians who became casualties between the warring nations.

In recent times, there were the internecine wars in Africa and Europe which gave rise to the term “ethnic cleansing”. Just a week ago, the world was stunned at the news that 57 people were murdered in Maguindanao province in Southern Philippines, 30 of whom were media people covering a political activity that turned into a bloodbath. We also read about senseless killings of people in public places and even in safe havens like schools.

Pride and envy caused Cain to kill Abel. The slaughter of innocent children by Herod was a result of fear of the rise of a Jewish king. And despite doing good deeds and sharing wise teachings, Jesus Christ was crucified for He defied the authorities who were jealous of His power.

God the Father, out of His eternal love, creates each person to be good, to do good, and to die good. But because He likewise gave us free will; we decide on what to do with their lives. There are those who follow God’s will; but others become attached to worldly ambitions and material wealth. The latter easily succumb to the temptations of Satan who find joy in evilness and selfishness of sinners. These sinners are the bad people that bring about trouble, if not chaos into this world.

It is easy to condemn bad people; yet God looks at them with love, with hope – as He does to those who are obedient to Him. “But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.” (Luke 6:35)

It is not for us to judge others, but then it is not also correct to allow wrongdoing to happen, if not thrive. We are asked, “Who will rise up for me against the evildoers? or who will stand up for me against the workers of iniquity?” (Psalm 94:16) Each one is empowered to rise against evil; each one is to stand against the workers of iniquity. How? “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)

For the righteous will always be victorious over people who do bad deeds. “For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.” (1 Peter 3:12)

by Mel Libre