I understand that this may be difficult for some, especially for those who do not believe in God or have strong objections to Him. I know many non-believers will hate what I write on this topic (as they do with all of my topics according to emails and replies to social media I receive). The wildfires in California are heartbreaking, and it’s natural to struggle with understanding why such tragedies happen. However, one thing I do firmly believe is that God, as the Creator of all things, deserves our reverence. When we witness instances of people mocking God, we should not be surprised if there are consequences. The Bible is clear in stating that God will not be mocked. While judgment may come in this life, ultimately, as Scripture affirms in Ephesians 2:10 that there will come a day when every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Galatians 6:7. It states, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” This verse emphasizes the principle that our actions have consequences and that God will ultimately hold us accountable for our choices. It serves as a powerful reminder to turn away from sin and turn towards God’s will.
The Sovereignty of God: Genesis 1:1
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). This simple yet profound verse reminds us of God’s supreme authority as the Creator of the universe. Everything we see, from the stars in the sky to the ground beneath our feet, exists because of His divine hand. This truth entrusts us with the duty of being stewards of His creation. When we neglect this responsibility, the consequences can be catastrophic, as seen in the devastating wildfires taking place in Los Angeles.
Whose Fault Is It? A Reflection on the Los Angeles Fires
Coverage of the wildfires has caused debates and finger-pointing, with many blaming political figures such as the governor of California stating for either saving the state or leaving it to burn. However, this perspective misses the bigger picture. For centuries, natural disasters have been called “acts of God” because they remind us of a profound truth: God is never absent. As Amos 3:6 asks, “Does disaster come to a city, unless the Lord has done it?”
God is sovereign over all, and nothing happens without His knowledge or permission. Sometimes He allows tragedies to occur to warn us, correct us, or remind us of our dependence on Him. Jesus highlighted this in Luke 13, when He responded to the tragedy of a tower collapsing and killing 18 people. He asked, “Do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem?” Then He said, “No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”
The fires are not just political or natural events. They are reminders of life’s fragility and the judgment to come. Watching raw footage of these fires are chilling—the roar, the relentless winds, and the consuming flames. People tell me the Bible is a fairy book and should not believed….Those people are wrong and need to start reading the Bible to understand better how and why things may work….and what the future holds. Fire in Scripture is often a metaphor for God’s judgment, as it consumes all that is impure. God has judged sin and the Earth once before when He brought a flood to cleanse the world. While He has promised through His rainbow that He will never again destroy the Earth with a flood, the Bible tells us that a future judgment is coming. This time, the world will be destroyed by fire. These events serve as warnings: repent, or you too will face destruction.
A Warning from the Past: Sodom, Gomorrah, and New Orleans
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in the Bible stands as a reminder of God’s judgment on sin. These cities were consumed by fire because of their rebellion against God, especially with homo-sexuality. Before anyone accuses me of judgment, it is important to clarify that God hates sin. Today, we see similar moral decay and spiritual indifference across our nation, especially in places like Hollywood, which many associate with pride, excess, and idolatry.
Hurricane Katrina’s devastation in New Orleans offered another wake-up call. Known for its culture’s history in witchcraft, voodoo, idolatry, and wild parties, the city experienced immense suffering. While some recognized this as a warning to turn to God, many reverted to their old ways, ignoring the lessons of the disaster. Like Israel in the Old Testament, which repeatedly fell away from God, our nation cannot continue in disobedience without facing consequences. God is patient, but there comes a point when He allows us to face the full weight of our choices.
Do Not Mock God: A Sobering Warning
As I listed above regarding the pictures about mocking God….for one thing…the devil is not red, does not a wear a cape or have horns….society has portrayed him as some cartoonish character like this for years and he loves this! it is heartbreaking to see signs that read, “Keep God out of California.” Such sentiments reflect a misunderstanding of God’s role in our lives. When we reject God, we invite chaos. Scripture warns us in Galatians 6:7 as stated above, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” God’s presence sustains everything (Colossians 1:17). Without Him, Satan gains control, leading to a world of unimaginable darkness. A world without God would be hell on earth. If God truly does stay out of California like many of the lost want Him to…He will allow Satan and his demons to have more freedom leading to more destruction. This could only be the beginning of the destruction. Instead of pushing God away, we should humbly seek His guidance and protection, recognizing He is our only hope in times of crisis. The unbeliever’s way is not working….why not give God a try!
A Call to Repentance: Heeding the Signs of the Times
The wildfires consuming Los Angeles are part of the signs Jesus warned about in Matthew 24—wars, famines, earthquakes, and other calamities. These events remind us of life’s fragility and the urgency of repentance. God does not delight in judgment but allows such warnings to draw us back to Him. Tragically, Revelation 9:20-21 describes how many refuse to repent despite clear signs, clinging instead to idolatry, immorality, and rebellion. Will we heed the warning, or will we, like so many before us, turn away?
Gratitude for Heroes: Honoring First Responders
In the midst of destruction, there are glimmers of hope. First responders, firefighters, and volunteers sacrifice their safety to protect others, reflecting God’s love in action. Their bravery and compassion challenge us to do likewise. How can we, like them, help our neighbors in times of need? Whether through acts of kindness, generosity, or simply being present, we can follow Jesus’ example by being a light in a dark world.
Trusting in God’s Sovereignty
It’s natural to ask why God allows such tragedies. While we may not fully understand His reasons, we can trust that He is in control. Romans 8:28 assures us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Even in suffering, His plan is at work. Our role is to trust Him, seek His guidance, and remain faithful, knowing His ways are higher than ours.
Challenge Questions for Reflection
- Are you paying attention to the signs of the times, and how is God calling you to respond?
- How can you take steps today to be a better steward of God’s creation and reflect His love to others?
- What would it look like for you to take a stand against mocking or rejecting God in your own community?
For Non-Christians:
If you don’t believe in God or struggle with why He allows bad things to happen, consider this: What might change in your life if you viewed tragedy not as meaningless but as a call to reflect, seek understanding, and draw closer to Him? How could exploring His Word and opening your heart to His presence transform your perspective?
Conclusion
The wildfires in Los Angeles remind us of God’s love, wrath, and the urgency of repentance. These events urge us to reflect on our relationship with Him, recognize our responsibility as stewards of His creation, and heed His call to return to Him. May we draw strength from His promises, courage from His love, and wisdom from His guidance as we navigate through life’s challenges.
Let us pray for those affected by the wildfires, extend compassion to those in need, and seek to live in alignment with God’s will. He is waiting for you to turn to Him. Will you answer the call?
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