Are You Feeling the Heat?

Scorching temperatures and dry skies have created the worst drought in the United States in over a half century.   I don't think this portends the end of life in America as we know it. But I know some will be quoting OT verses claiming that God is passing judgment on a sinful nation. On the other hand, the Bible does declare a time of judgment when the earth will be destroyed with intense heat and will be laid to waste along with its inhabitants (2 Peter 3:10; Isa 24).

Throughout the Bible, God portrays Himself as Ruler over the elements. He used extreme weather to destroy Noah's world. He used extreme weather to confound and defeat Israel’s enemies. Likewise, Jesus demonstrated power over the wind and sea.  Clearly, God uses weather for His purposes.

Yes, a colossal apocalyptic weather event will occur in the day of the Lord. But short of that, does God speak through extreme weather events today?  Consider this: will it not bring farmers to their knees? Will it not bring consumers to theirs? And nations to despair? Is America’s drought the beginning of the end? I don’t know. But clearly, it is a very effective tool to get our attention—both personally and corporately.  Peter puts it in perspective for us: “Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be?” (2 Peter 3:11).  Are you feeling the heat?