The wildfires in California and the hurricanes in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico—it seems every time we turn on the TV or look at our phones, we’re hearing about another tragedy that’s taking more lives and leaving more people wondering, “Where’s God?” What do we do? Well, remind them that God’s in control. Proverbs 19 says, “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand” (ESV). Isaiah 45 says He’s the One who makes things calm and allows calamity. Why? Many times it’s to show His power, help us to refocus, and ultimately lead people to Himself.

Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. May not copy or download more than 500 consecutive verses of the ESV Bible or more than one half of any book of the ESV Bible.

Suggested Reading: Proverbs 19:21, Isaiah 45