As I write this, a storm has just passed through our little town. As the storm continues through the metroplex, other towns and cities are in danger. The storm has strong wind, heavy rain and lightning. The town emergency siren was activated, and a tornado was spotted above the town, though it seems it did not touch down. The schools all had their children in the hallways, to protect them from the potential of the storm.
The danger brought to mind the descriptions given of God’s judgment in the Old Testament. For example, in Jeremiah 30:23-24 as God promised the restoration of His people, He described the judgment that would come to His enemies. “Behold, the whirlwind of the Lord goes forth with fury, a continuing whirlwind; it will fall violently on the head of the wicked. The fierce anger of the Lord will not return until He has done it, and until He has performed the intents of His heart. In the latter days you will consider it.”
Like a tornado, when God’s wrath is visited upon the wicked, nothing can be done to withstand it. Destruction is inevitable because of the power of His purpose. Until He determines to finish, danger will remain.
It is for this reason that we seek to please Him. As Jesus told His disciples, “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28).
Our God brings the whirlwind to the wicked, but tranquility to the just. We would do well to consider this truth.
