Natural disasters
The Almighty God reserves the right-
– to reveal some things
– and conceal others.
Although we may not know why natural disasters occur-
– the biblical truths we do know with absolute certainty allow us,
– to trust the Lord even in times of great suffering.
These include:
- God controls!
“The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all” (Psalms 103:19).
Nothing in heaven or on earth is outside of His rule and authority.
He does not react to events but sovereignly ordains or permits them to run their course.
Although we cannot know for certain if He has sent a catastrophe or allowed it, we can trust in His goodness and wisdom.
- God cares!
The Lord loves people and wants them to be saved.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:16-17).
Giving His Son for the salvation of the world proves without a doubt that He loves each person.
This truth stands firm despite the fact that many reject the Saviour.
He cares for us, even when we can’t feel it or won’t accept it.
- God consents!
God ordains or permits events for His good purpose.
“Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things that are not yet done, Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, And I will do all My pleasure’” (Isaiah 46:10).
Though we cannot fully comprehend what He is doing in each incident, every disaster is a wake-up call for humanity.
He is alerting us of the need to repent-
– so the lost can be saved and the saved can be revived to live totally for Him.
Catastrophes open our ears to hear from the Lord.
The One who loves us perfectly is in full control-
– working everything out according to His good purpose.
Knowing this should fill us with hope-
– even in the midst of crisis situations.
The Lord even promises to turn disaster to good for those who “are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).