We understand your struggle with these questions, and we appreciate your honesty. The delay in Christ's return and the problem of evil are subjects that have challenged many believers. Let's address these concerns together through the lens of Scripture.
Firstly, it's important to recognize that God's timeline and purposes are not always clear to us. As it is written in Isaiah 55:8-9 WEB, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, says Yahweh. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."
God's desire is for everyone to be saved, as evident in 2 Peter 3:9 WEB, "The Lord is not slow concerning his promise, as some count slowness; but is patient with us, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." However, He has given humanity free will, which means that each person has the choice to accept or reject Him. This free will is a reflection of God's love for us, as love cannot be forced but must be freely given and received.
Regarding the suffering and evil in the world, it's crucial to remember that these are consequences of sin entering the world through humanity's disobedience, as seen in Genesis 3 WEB. God did not create evil, but He allows it to exist for a time, with a purpose that we may not fully comprehend. However, He promises that one day, He will wipe away every tear and there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain (Revelation 21:4 WEB).
In your questioning, it's noticeable that the name of Jesus Christ is not mentioned. The only way to be saved is through Jesus. The Lord says, 'For whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.' (Romans 10:13 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!' (Acts 4:12 WEB).
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You, humbled by our limited understanding and grateful for Your infinite wisdom. We lift up this individual who is wrestling with difficult questions and asking for Your intervention.
Father, we pray that You will reveal Yourself to them in a powerful and personal way, that they may know You intimately and trust in Your goodness and sovereignty. We pray that You will grant them peace and understanding, even in the midst of uncertainty.
We also pray for those who are suffering and lost, that You will draw them to Yourself and grant them the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. We ask this in Jesus Christ's Name.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
In the meantime, let us strive to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others, so that they too may come to know Him and be saved. May we all trust in God's perfect timing and have faith that He will accomplish His purposes in His way and in His time. If you have any questions about salvation or Jesus Christ, please let us know and we can discuss it.