In Genesis 1:7 we have recorded for us this short and powerful phrase: “And it was so.” The finality in this verse reminds me of God’s declaration in Isaiah 46:9-11, “I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,’ calling a bird of prey from the east, the man of my counsel from a far country. I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it.” This raises an important question to consider, though: If God is all powerful and His purpose is always accomplished, why are things contrary to God’s nature allowed in this world? Why is there evil? If nothing happens apart from God’s will, then why do people suffer senseless acts of violence and cruelty? To answer this question, let us begin with looking at who God is.