We Cannot Control The Storm

And so I will greatly punish Egypt, and they will know that I am the LORD.” [Ezekiel 30.19]

What is the reason for God's punishment?

It is so people will know - really know - that He is Yahweh ("the LORD").

What is punishment?

It is inescapable hardship, pain, tragedy, loss, or suffering - the key word here being "inescapable."

Punishment is really not punishment until it is seen as inescapable. When it is seen as inescapable (unavoidable) then is when punishment's recipient is humbled - the recipient realizes he is inferior to his punisher and cannot deter the punishment.

The book of Deuteronomy describes punishment (curses for disobedience) in chapter 28. The punishments described there have much to do with weaknesses - weaknesses against others and weaknesses against the elements. Punishment reveals vulnerability.

The only hope in inescapable punishment is repentance toward God. This is because only He truly controls everything - the weather, our health, everything... Until we recognize this, we remain in pride and subject to punishment (yes, I said this right because "grace" only applies to the humble).

In the USA, we have just experienced an inescapable and devastating storm (Hurricane Harvey) and are watching another as it approaches... When we see that pride and arrogance (self-sufficiency) makes us vulnerable, our only recourse is to pray and repent because we cannot control the storm (ONLY GOD CAN)!

Father, these thoughts today are a revelation to me. I am vulnerable in my health, wealth, and climate - areas that prove over and again that no matter what mankind does to control them, he cannot. Forgive me for ever thinking I can do anything to prevent curses from coming on my life besides repentance.