How do we know that God is in control during evil times?

The sovereignty of God means that He is in control of all events, including those that involve evil actions. In the case of Absalom's rebellion against David, God had foretold through Nathan that trouble would arise from within David's house. Although Absalom acted out of his sinful nature, his actions ultimately fulfilled God’s divine providence and plan. This is analogous to how the crucifixion of Christ, a blatant act of evil, was predestined and served God's redemptive purpose. As seen in Acts 2:23, those who perpetrated this act acted out of wickedness, while still unwittingly fulfilling God's plan. Therefore, we can trust that God can ordain evil for His ultimate good without being responsible for the sin itself.