“Where Is God in a Storm?”

When Trouble Hits

Three tornadoes were among the severe storms that struck east Tennessee on Sunday night. Hail and wind toppled trees and damaged homes and property. Thankfully, no one was killed or hurt.

I refuse to call bad storms “God’s will.” Harmful weather is an act of nature, not an act of God.

Imagine a toddler standing atop a flight of stairs. Would God push that child down the stairs? Then why would God intentionally knock us (or our house) down with a tornado?

If you had to sleep elsewhere because your roof was gone, would you want other people to wonder what you did wrong for God to punish you like that?

Why Me? Why Them?

Allowing suffering isn’t the same as causing it. God allows pain as a consequence of humans misusing their free will.

Sin infects creation, so earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes wreak havoc on the righteous and the unrighteous alike. Because we have free will, God normally does not send an angel to stop falling storm debris.

In a tragedy, I believe God’s heart is the first of all our hearts to break. This side of heaven, no one knows why one house is untouched while the house next door is smashed. When 10 households seek shelter, only the Holy Spirit knows why nine families walk out afterward but the tenth must be carried out.

Where is God in This?

I see God in:

1.   the news media that provide weather updates during the storm.

2.   the law enforcement who work to keep the roads safe.

3.   the EMTs, nurses, and doctors when injuries occur.

4.   the line crews who work long hours to restore power.

5.   the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and churches that offer support.

6.   the neighbors who help one another clean up the mess.

7.   the volunteers who donate money, clothes, or supplies.

8.   the prayers offered for the affected communities.

What else would you add to this list?

David