Natural disasters—a sign from God?

In the wake of Japan’s recent earthquake and tsunami, Tokyo’s governor referred to the events as tembatsu—or “divine judgment.” Mr. Ishihara subsequently apologized for his religious-sounding comments. However, many around the globe agree with Mr. Ishihara’s initial assessment. A recent poll of Americans revealed that about 40% view natural disasters as “a sign from God.”  That number approaches 60% among Evangelicals, and drops significantly among Catholics and non-Evangelical “Christians” (Foxnews.com, March 24, 2011).

As we approach the “end of the age”—as the Bible refers to it—students of the Bible understand that natural disasters, on land and at sea, will increase in intensity and frequency (Matthew 24:6-8; Revelation 6:5-8). The Caribbean hurricane season is predicted to be intense again this year and to start earlier in the southern Caribbean and western Gulf of Mexico. AccuWeather predicts “15 named storms from June 1 to November 30, eight of which will become hurricanes, with three major ones (category three or higher)” (www.nationnews.com, March 31, 2011).

Although natural disasters will come, God also prophesies that a future time of peace will come when tears and sorrow will no longer exist (Revelation 21:4). God controls the weather and He will use it to punish nations that turn away from His laws. In the long-term, God will use the weather to bring blessings to nations that follow His laws. For more information on this important topic please review our intriguing booklet, Who Controls the Weather?