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Encouraging Words

When tragedy strikes

April 3, 2020 By Pat Pajak

Unexpected tragedy comes in many forms. Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, droughts, and most recently, the Coronavirus pandemic. We are left to deal with the physical, emotional, and spiritual aftermath, as the world asks, “Where is the God of love? Why are innocent people suffering? How come God didn’t prevent this?”

As believers, we understand that God knows when tragedy strikes. Nothing has taken God by surprise. Just because we don’t understand exactly what is going on, it doesn’t mean he is not aware of everything that is happening.

We also must understand that God cares when tragedy strikes. Psalm 46:1 tells us “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble.” We must trust him, not only in the good times but also in the bad times (1 Peter 5:7).

Finally, as believers, we must understand that God loves us when tragedy strikes. He doesn’t stop loving us simply because we are facing unprecedented times (Psalm 138:7). What is the answer as we go through these difficult days? Psalm 56:3 says, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.”

Share that message of hope with others and pray with someone today.

Pat Pajak is an IBSA zone consultant.

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