The phrase “And if not, He is still good” isn’t quoted word-for-word in most Bible translations, but it captures one of the most powerful expressions of faith in the face of uncertainty—faith that trusts God even when He doesn’t answer our prayers the way we hope.
This mindset comes directly from the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the Book of Daniel, when they refuse to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image. Their response is a declaration of bold trust in God’s power to save—but also of complete surrender to His will even if He doesn’t.
The Foundational Verse: Daniel 3:17–18
1. Daniel 3:17–18
If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.
Explanation:
This is the heart of “And if not, He is still good.” The three men trust God’s power, but even if He chooses not to rescue them, their faith doesn’t waver. They choose obedience over outcome.
14 More Bible Verses That Reflect This Faith
2. Habakkuk 3:17–18
Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines… yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Explanation:
Even in total loss, the prophet chooses joy. This verse beautifully echoes “God is still good,” even when nothing else seems right.
3. Job 13:15
Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him…
Explanation:
Job expresses raw, painful faith. Even in suffering and confusion, he refuses to let go of his trust in God.
4. Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…
Explanation:
This verse affirms that God is always working for our good—even if we can’t see it right away.
5. Psalm 46:1–2
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…
Explanation:
This verse encourages calm and trust in the middle of chaos. God’s goodness is not shaken by trouble.
6. Isaiah 55:8–9
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.
Explanation:
God’s plans are beyond our understanding, but they are always good—even when we don’t get what we hoped for.
7. Lamentations 3:22–23
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed… great is your faithfulness.
Explanation:
In the middle of sorrow, Jeremiah declares God’s faithfulness. This verse reminds us: God’s goodness is constant, even in grief.
8. Proverbs 3:5–6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…
Explanation:
When things don’t make sense, we can still trust. God sees the full picture when we cannot.
9. 2 Corinthians 4:17–18
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory… So we fix our eyes not on what is seen…
Explanation:
This verse reminds us to have a long view. Even suffering is producing something greater we can’t yet see.
10. John 16:33
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
Explanation:
Jesus acknowledges life’s hardships, but gives us hope rooted in His victory—not in immediate comfort.
11. Psalm 34:8
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
Explanation:
God’s goodness isn’t circumstantial—it’s part of who He is. We are blessed when we take shelter in Him.
12. Philippians 4:11–13
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances… I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Explanation:
Paul’s contentment didn’t come from ease, but from Christ’s strength. This is the “even if not” kind of peace.
13. 1 Peter 1:6–7
…you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith… may result in praise, glory and honor…
Explanation:
Trials test and refine our faith. Through them, we reflect the goodness of God more clearly.
14. Psalm 23:4
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me…
Explanation:
God’s presence is the comfort—even when we walk through the “valley.” His goodness follows us there, too.
15. Revelation 21:4
‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…’
Explanation:
Even if suffering continues now, this verse promises a future where God’s goodness is fully seen and felt forever.
Final Thoughts: Trusting God Even If…
Faith that says, “Even if He doesn’t… He is still good” is faith that has let go of control. It trusts not in the outcome, but in the character of God. These verses show us that God is always worthy of our trust—not because He always does what we want, but because He is always good.
Call to Action
Have you ever faced a moment where you had to say, “Even if not, He is still good”? What verse gave you strength in that time? Share your thoughts or story in the comments—we’d love to hear how you’ve seen God’s goodness, even in the waiting or the hard times.