"God sends rain on the just and the unjust." I have often heard this Bible verse quoted. It is almost always quoted out of context and completely misinterpreted. Rain is interpreted as troubles and trials. This verse is often used to explain why good people have to face trials.
Many people think of rain as bad because it interferes with picnics and outdoor activities. But Jesus spoke these words to mostly farmers living in a land with low rainfall. They depended on rain to make their crops yield a harvest. Their food supply depended on rain. To them, rain was a picture of God's blessing.
The context of the verse makes it clear that Jesus gives rain as an example of the way God sends blessings on everyone, both good and bad.
"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous." (Matthew 5:43-45 NIV)
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