This is a question that we hear very often and is quite regularly used as a justification as to why there is no God. The thought process is that if there is a God, He would not allow people to suffer, especially innocents, children and so on. This sentiment seems to come to the fore whenever there is a tragedy.

How could any being with the power to stop such things just sit back and let it happen? Here is the response to this very question that was given by Anne Graham (daughter of US TV Evangelist Billy Graham), she said:

“I say God is also angry when he sees something like this. I would say also for several years now Americans in a sense have shaken their fist at God and said, God, we want you out of our schools, our government, our business, we want you out of our marketplace. And God, who is a gentleman, has just quietly backed out of our national and political life, our public life. Removing his hand of blessing and protection. We need to turn to God first of all and say, God, we're sorry we have treated you this way and we invite you now to come into our national life. We put our trust in you.” (Anne Graham, 2001)

This response rings true not only for the USA, but for almost all developed countries on the planet. Expecting God to just protect us no matter what, is like expecting the government to pay welfare benefits to everyone who would like some extra money, regardless of their circumstances. Everyone understands that there are criteria that must be met in order to receive welfare payments — we may not necessarily agree with the specifics, but the need for some sort of standard or benchmark has never been disputed.

God too, has requirements. God wants to be a part of our lives, and is willing to have a personal relationship with anyone who is prepared to investigate and do their best to meet His requirements. 

Why would we assume that if we have turned our backs on God, that we would be protected from disasters or tough times?

If you’re concerned about the world around you and are looking for some assurance, security and protection, think about reading the Bible. In it you will discover the wonderful hope God is offering to anyone who cares to look. 

Reference: Graham Lotz, A. (2001, September 13). The Early Show