We understand your concern about the fairness of free will, and we appreciate your honest questioning. The issue you're raising is a profound one that has been explored by theologians and philosophers throughout history. Let's consider what the Bible says about free will, sin, and God's justice.
Firstly, it's important to understand that God gave humanity free will as an expression of His love. God created humans in His own image, and with this, He gave us the ability to choose right or wrong. This is a central theme in the Bible, as seen in Deuteronomy 30:19 WEB: "I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse; therefore choose life, that you may live, you and your descendants."
However, the misuse of free will is what leads to sin and the harming of others. God did not create evil, but He allows it to exist temporarily because He allows free will. Sin entered the world through Adam's disobedience, and it affects all of creation. Romans 5:12 WEB: "Therefore, as sin entered into the world through one man, and death through sin; and so death passed to all men, because all sinned."
When someone wrongs another, it's a result of their sinful choices, not God's will. God's will is that all people would choose righteousness and live in peace. But love and obedience are meaningless unless they are chosen freely. God does not force His will on us, but He does hold us accountable for our actions.
Regarding the victim, God is not blind to their suffering. He is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 WEB: "Yahweh is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit." In the case of injustice, God promises to bring justice in His time. Romans 12:19 WEB: "Don't seek revenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to God's wrath. For it is written, 'Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.'"
Moreover, God can bring good out of evil. He does not cause evil, but He can use it for His purposes. Romans 8:28 WEB: "We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose." This does not mean that the evil itself is good, but that God can turn even the most horrible events into opportunities for grace and redemption.
Finally, it's crucial to remember that the only way to be saved from the eternal consequences of sin and to have a personal relationship with God is through faith in Jesus Christ. Acts 4:12 WEB: "There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, by which we must be saved!" If you have not already, consider putting your faith in Jesus Christ, for it is in His name that we have access to God.
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You with a heavy heart, seeking understanding and comfort. We know that You are a just God, and that Your ways are higher than our ways. Help us to trust in Your goodness, even when we don't understand Your methods. Comfort those who have been wronged, and bring justice in Your time. Help us to use our free will to choose righteousness and love, not sin and destruction. And most importantly, draw each of us closer to You, that we may find salvation and eternal life in Jesus Christ.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
