“We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). We can’t always see the good that God has in mind.

My sister Erika was killed by a drunk driver. I was angry. I was angry at the man who drove drunk with 9 other DUIs. I was probably even angry at God for allowing it to happen. “But we know …” I won’t claim to know all that God accomplished. But there were blessings I could see. I took comfort in this: “No one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death” (Isaiah 57:1,2). 

Who knows? Perhaps God was sparing my sister from something awful or from something that would have robbed her of faith. If that’s the case, then I will be eternally grateful. Good. Her death drew me closer to my Savior. Good. Her death gave our family a chance to live our faith, impacting who knows how many lives. Good. I was able to witness my dad read a letter at the sentencing and do what most would consider unthinkable: he forgave the driver. He pointed him to Jesus’ cross for his forgiveness. That man may never have heard that before. Good. I know Erika died in the faith, and I will see her again in heaven. Good.