It is hard for anyone to understand why there is so much evil and heartache in this world. Everytime we turn on the news, it seems like something is going on. 

Most recently, Hurricane Ida has ravaged the state of Louisiana. Cities like Hammond and New Orleans were drastically affected with thousands of people left without power and running water as these once beautiful and vibrant cities are left broken. 

It isn’t a surprise that some people during this time are crying out to God, pleading for an answer to such a difficult question. Why is there so much evil in this world? Can the God that once calmed a raging storm not do the same with Hurricane Ida? Is there a point in still worshipping a God that allows this much heartache and destruction?

Right about now, the person reading this is expecting me to answer these questions with such convincing arguments backed up by a list of scripture references. I am not a renowned Christian apologist, and the truth is that I don’t know. An even greater truth is that it is okay.

The Bible expresses repeatedly how human wisdom is folly and true wisdom comes from the fear of God. In these difficult times, we like to rely on our own earthly wisdom (1 Corinthians 3:19). That can easily lead us down a road full of anger and bitterness. In these moments, it is vital to acknowledge these emotions. It is okay to be angry; it is okay to be sad. God does not expect us to not be affected at all.

Being a Christian does not mean that life will be all rainbows and sunshine. As a matter of fact, it’s the complete opposite (1 Peter 1:6). There will be times in your life where you find it difficult to follow God with a smile. 

You are still called to follow though. The decision of who is ultimately up to each individual. In these difficult times, is one willing to deny their own earthly wisdom and pick up  their cross and follow God (Matthew 16:24-26)? 

This question might not make sense to someone who is going through a monumentally horrible trial in their life. It is no secret that Hurricane Ida was awful. People lost everything:  their homes, power for the next month, jobs, and even lives. It is hard to see what good could come from any of this. 

The truth is that we might not even realize the lessons  we gain from these trials. They may not even become known until way later down the road, but God has a unique way of utilizing these trials in ways that we can’t even begin to comprehend (James 1:2-4).

There have been many difficult trials that I’ve faced myself. Some of these, I have yet to even understand how it has helped me to grow. For some, it took me years before I realized the fruit of that trial. 

What it comes down to is faith in God and in the people that he has placed around you. As cliche and cheesy as it may sound, you are not alone nor will you ever be. You are united in a body of believers who look out for each other, care for each other, laugh with each other, and even cry with each other (Acts 2:42-48).