Where is God?: How should we view natural disasters

In recent years, we have seen a series of natural disasters. Each one of them left behind a trail of devastation. Lives were lost, homes were uprooted, and communities were shattered. 

As we grapple with the aftermath, we may find ourselves wrestling with a profound question: 

"Where is God in all of these trials?" 

After all, as Christians, we believe in an all-powerful and benevolent Creator, which prompts another question: 

“Why does God permit these natural disasters to unfold? Is it justifiable to harbor resentment towards Him?” This article will help Christians possess a clearer understanding of how to view these events through the lens of faith, offering solace and insight during times of uncertainty.

Non-stop natural disasters

In the year 2023 alone, we have borne witness to what appears to be an unceasing barrage of natural disasters. 

It seems as though these calamities have become a relentless force, wreaking havoc across the globe. 

Some of these crises capture the attention of the international community. Meanwhile, others remain hidden from the awareness of those living beyond the borders of the affected countries. 

Yet, regardless of their scale or visibility, these smaller, less-publicized disasters also exact a heavy toll. They claimed precious lives, shattered livelihoods, and thrust entire communities into despair.

For instance, in February 2023, the world watched as strong winds and soaring temperatures gave rise to dozens of forest fires that raged across central and southern Chile. 

Meanwhile, the nation of Uruguay finds itself grappling with a crisis of a different kind. 

Since September 2022, there has been a severe lack of rainfall combined with soaring temperatures during the summer months. As a result, this has plunged the country into the grip of widespread drought. 

The situation has grown so dire that the Uruguayan government felt compelled to declare a state of emergency in response to the growing calamity.

Where is God in the midst of natural disasters?

In your search for answers to the pressing question of where God stands in the face of natural disasters, it is essential to first delve into the biblical perspective. That being said, let us go back to when humanity fell into sin.

Sin and nature

With Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden, a curse was cast not only upon mankind. It was cast upon all of nature as well. This curse signifies that sinful humanity cannot dwell in the perfect paradise that God intended. 

However, this does not translate into God having a hands-off approach to natural disasters. 

Many individuals attempt to shield God from the biblical teachings that reveal His involvement in these catastrophic events. 

In fact, the scriptures reveal His active role in natural disasters. 

Take, for instance, the time of the plagues in Egypt. God undoubtedly sent those plagues as a means to convey His message. The story of Noah's flood further exemplifies God's involvement. The scriptures indicate that the flood was, indeed, a divine act.

But in modern times, it is not that God directly causes these disasters. 

Rather, the fact that He possesses the power to prevent them underscores the need to confront the reality that natural disasters unfold within the framework of His providence.

Disaster response

Instead of hastily assigning blame to God for the occurrence of natural disasters, consider a shift in perspective. 

Reflect on how God responds when disaster befalls His own family. 

The life of Jesus offers a poignant example. 

Betrayed by a close friend, unjustly accused, and subjected to unimaginable torment, Jesus endured immense suffering and isolation. 

He, too, cried out, questioning why God had forsaken Him.

However, His sacrifice on the cross demonstrates God's profound love and commitment to His family. It offers hope even in the darkest of times.

In the face of your own trials and natural disasters, consider shifting your inquiry. 

So rather than asking, "How could God let me go through this natural disaster?" pose a different question: 

"How is God going through this with me? How will God provide a way out on the other side of this destruction?" 

God brings restoration

In the midst of the turmoil and devastation, hold onto the promise made by Jesus: 

"Behold, I am making all things new."  These words provide profound insight into understanding God's role in the face of such trials. They remind us that the world we inhabit is not the final destination; it is merely the beginning of our journey.

How do we explain God’s involvement in natural disasters to non-Christians?

When explaining God's involvement in natural disasters to non-Christians, it is important to be sensitive to their concerns and fears. 

Many may wonder why we would attribute such catastrophic events to God or suggest that He allows them for a higher purpose. They might question why anyone would turn to a God who seems to permit such terrible things to happen.

It is true that offering simplistic answers like "God will bring good out of it" or "in the end, we win" often falls short of providing comfort to those who have suffered the loss of loved ones or possessions in a disaster. 

Such responses can come across as dismissive of the deep pain and grief people are experiencing. 

It is essential to recognize that these answers, when given without genuine understanding and compassion, can indeed drive people further away from God. This is rather than drawing them closer.

However, one powerful way to convey God's involvement in natural disasters is through our actions. 

By demonstrating love, kindness, and support to those affected, we reflect the character of God as a loving and caring Creator. 

Instead of trying to explain God's reasons for permitting disasters, we can exemplify His love and compassion in tangible ways that resonate with non-Christians. Ultimately, we can draw them closer to God through our benevolent actions.

Practical responses to natural disasters

As Philip Yancey eloquently puts it in his book "Where is God When It Hurts?" – suffering should not be seen as a direct act of God that we must passively accept as punishment. 

In fact, Jesus Himself dedicated His earthly life to combating disease and despair, exemplifying the proactive approach we should adopt.

In our response to natural disasters, our primary focus should be on caring for the entirety of an individual, family, or community. This means addressing their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.

Depending on the scale and nature of the disaster, these efforts can encompass various elements, including local household and business repairs, restoring energy and water systems, and removing hazardous debris from streets and public areas. This phase of recovery is crucial in helping communities rebuild their lives and regain a sense of normalcy.

Helping rebuild communities

Recognize that while we cannot prevent natural disasters, and assigning blame to God does not yield any positive outcomes, there is a path forward. 

Our focus should shift toward the future, where God's promise of restoration awaits. 

In the meantime, we should wholeheartedly engage in the process of helping the communities affected by these disasters in their journey to recovery. 

Moreover, by extending our hands and hearts to those in need, we become vessels of hope, embodying the compassion and care of our benevolent Creator in the face of adversity.

More from Crossmap:

Caring for the earth: What should be the stance on development vs nature preservation