Too often this verse is used to explain away hard times and difficult situations with the notion that God will use a tragic event to create good in this world. Unfortunately, we Christians have a limited vision of time and we expect that God functions under the same limited notion of time. God's promises are true and, indeed, he is good; but the promises of prosperity and good-from-bad on this Earth drive many potential believers from God when things may not seem to work out.

Instead of expecting prosperity, wealth, and health on Earth we must set our sights toward Heaven, acknowledge that this world is fallen and suffering is inevitable, and thank God for his ever present goodness and faith. Praise God for his blessings both now and in His eternal future.

Jeremiah 29:11