It’s been a devastating year including 2 massive hurricanes. Whether it’s loss, destruction, or heartbreak, the weight of disaster can leave us feeling isolated, hopeless, and overwhelmed. Maybe you’ve been there recently—staring at the ruins, wondering how life can ever feel normal again. When my family faced a destructive storm, I remember thinking, “How is the world just going on like nothing happened while I’m standing in the middle of this chaos?” It’s a strange, lonely feeling.
But what if I told you that even after the darkest storms, there’s still a place to see the goodness of God? Psalm 27:13 reminds us, “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”
I’ve walked this road. I know what it feels like to question everything and wonder where God is. But in the aftermath of a disaster, God’s word has been my anchor. I’ve found that through the wreckage, God is not only present—He’s the one holding us up, even when we can’t stand on our own.
Today, we’ll dive into how you can regain your footing, find hope again, and ultimately, see the goodness of the Lord in your life after hardship.
In this post, we’ll explore:
The Struggle to See God’s Goodness After Disaster
God’s Promises for Those Who Suffer
Steps to Rediscover Hope and Restoration in Your Life
The Struggle to See God’s Goodness After Disaster
Suffering often feels isolated, like the world is going about its usual business while you’re stuck in a reality that’s been flipped upside down. After a disaster, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, it can feel as if no one else understands your pain, and even God seems far away. You’re left asking: Where is the goodness of the Lord in this? Yet, Psalm 34:8 invites us to, “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.” Even when it feels like hope is lost, the promise is that God is still good. The challenge is learning to look for Him in the broken pieces.
God’s Promises for Those Who Suffer
When disaster strikes, we need to remember who God is—a God of compassion and comfort. As 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 reminds us, He is “the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.” Not only does He understand our suffering, but He also walks with us through it, carrying us when we can’t take another step. In times of pain, God’s word assures us that even though we may feel pressed and burdened, we are not abandoned. As 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 says, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
Steps to Rediscover Hope and Restoration in Your Life
Cling to God’s Promises
After experiencing disaster, the waiting can feel like forever, but Psalm 27:14 encourages us, “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” God’s timing may not align with our desire for quick relief, but His goodness will unfold. Trust in His plan, even when the path seems unclear.
Take Refuge in God’s Presence
It’s easy to let our thoughts spiral in times of crisis, but God is our refuge. Psalm 34:8 reminds us to “taste and see that the Lord is good.” Turn to Him in prayer, lean on His word, and let His comfort soothe your soul.
Look for Signs of His Goodness, Even in Small Ways
Sometimes, we’re so focused on the big miracle we miss the small blessings. After disaster, look for glimpses of God’s goodness—the helping hand of a friend, a moment of peace, or even the beauty of nature reminding you that God is still at work.
Rest in God’s Love That Will Never Leave You
Romans 8:39 assures us that nothing, “neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation,” will separate us from the love of God. Even in our worst moments, God’s love remains steadfast. You’re not abandoned in your suffering; He’s right there with you, holding you in His love.
Conclusion: Finding God’s Goodness in the Aftermath
Disaster doesn’t get the final word. God does. In the aftermath of the storm, God’s promise is that you will see His goodness. Psalm 23:6 gives us the hope to hold on to: “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life.” It may not come all at once, but with every new day, as you lean on Him, you will find His goodness again. Take heart in the journey, knowing that the God of compassion is walking with you, strengthening you, and restoring your hope.
Let’s Pray:
Dear Father,
Thank You that even in the midst of our disasters, You are present and faithful. Help us trust in Your goodness and hold on to Your promises, especially when life feels overwhelming. Renew our strength and give us the hope to see Your goodness again. In Jesus’ name, Amen.