by Shannon Steuerwald

When tragedy strikes, when storms rage, when hurricanes blow, and when the earth shakes, no matter who you are, where you have been, where you are headed, or what you are doing, everyone’s first instinct is (and should be) to find shelter. With the exception of our first responder emergency workers who have been trained to go against natural instincts, we run AWAY from danger. This instinct is part of our God-breathed creation, and it is a beautiful aspect of God’s care for us.

But what do you do when you can’t run away from the hurt or danger? What happens when tragedy strikes so close that you feel helpless, vulnerable, and attacked from all sides? How do we respond when we are brought to our knees with pain, loss, and suffering?

We know from watching rescue shows that the first question an emergency responder for 9-1-1 asks is, “What is your emergency?” Have you ever thought what you would tell God?

• Life isn’t fair! I need your help.
• I really, really hurt inside; and I don’t know what to do about it.
• Why did you take my loved one away?
• I just want to feel better.
• I don’t feel loved.
• I’m lonely.
• My heart aches, and I don’t have medicine for it.
• I’m overwhelmed, and I feel like I can’t breathe.
• Why don’t you give me a baby? That’s all I want.
• I’m tired of this life. My kids constantly argue. My husband ignores me.
• Why is it so hard to like reading the Bible?
• I’m in debt, and I see no way out.
• Why did you make me fat?
• How can I be pretty again?
• How can I get the ladies in my church to grow?
• Why does ministry take up so much of my husband’s time?
• My health drags down my family.
• Why exactly did you make me female?
• PMS is lousy; couldn’t you have been more creative?

These responses might not be your answer to God asking, “What is your emergency?” But, we can all think of a time in our life when we did have a similar meltdown of emotions or spiritual belief.

The next question to ponder is, “What would God’s response be to our emergency?” Here are some reminders that might help us get aligned with His Word when tragedy strikes. No doubt, God’s answers would come from these Bible truths.

1. God always addresses our issues and feelings with truth. Are my feelings based on truth? Are my actions in line with God’s truth?
2. God always has our best interest in mind even when He allows difficult and hurtful people and/or circumstances in our lives.
3. God always provides shelter for us. We can find this shelter by positioning ourselves on the foundation of God’s Word, the anchors of His faithful promises and provisions, and the lifelines of His attributes as our heavenly Father, constant Friend, and loving God.