Reflect on the following:

Tsunami's, floods, and bush fires are no joke. In 2021 it was estimated by Deloitte that natural disasters cost Australia over $38 billion a year and this will nearly double by 2060. The real cost, however, is more than a financial one, many people and animals lose their homes and even their lives when a major disaster strikes.

So what should we think about the weather? Is God really in control? Most of us are comfortable asking God for good weather for our next sports game or outdoor event - we may even thank God for a perfect sunny day. But when it comes to bad weather, who's to blame - infamous weather systems like El Nina or God? And who can we go to about these disasters?

The bible is full of stories where God uses natural disasters as a judgement for human sin. The flood account in Genesis is one well known example (Genesis 6:5-9:19). God is the rightful judge of the world, and as creator, able to control any aspect of the weather for his purposes. Jeremiah 10:12-13 puts it this way,

"It is he who made the earth by his power, who established the world by his wisdom, and by his understanding stretched out the heavens. When he utters his voice, there is a tumult of waters in the heavens, and he makes the mist rise from the ends of the earth. He makes lightning for the rain, and he brings forth the wind from his storehouses."

So if God is in control of the weather, the question remains, is today's good or bad weather a daily judgement from God? The answer is both yes and no. In His limitless wisdom God uses the weather both to provide for humanity and to call them back to trusting in Him. Natural disasters remind us how terrifying and unpredictable life in this world can be. They remind us of the reality of death and destruction. They are another symptom of the presence of sin in this world. It is not that those suffering the effects of a natural disaster specifically sinned in a way that meant they should suffer more than others. Rather, because humans have collectively rebelled against God, we have all been exiled from the perfect paradise God intended us to live in and we continue to long for. So whatever the weather today, remember who it comes from. If it has brought you pain and suffering perhaps this is a time to call out to God for mercy. If it has brought you joy perhaps this is the day to give Him thanks.

Prayer: Dear God, I acknowledge you as the creator and sustainer of all things. I acknowledge that I am not as in control as I'd like to be and that I don't always like what you choose to give me. Forgive me for my rebellion against you. Help me to trust your wisdom in all that you do. In Jesus name, Amen.