In Matthew 24, Jesus prophesied about the End—time and spoke specifically about what would happen during that period. He spoke of a time when there would be wars, rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. So everything we're seeing in the news today is no reason for us to fear and think God is punishing people for sin. Instead, what we're seeing is the obvious progression of God's plan for the Last Days.

Prophecy is being fulfilled daily before our eyes. There have been more natural disasters over the past decade than ever before. Tornados, monsoons, tsunamis, earthquakes, floods are all increasing. However, amidst the commotion in the world, it's important to remember that God is not the cause of the horror we see. Yes, Jesus prophesied that these things would happen. However, He never said God was the One who would cause these disasters. Yet, because Jesus said it, many people have assumed that God is to blame for the state of our world. But I beg to differ!

I was watching the news the other day, and a young mother was crying because she lost her home as a result of a tornado. Many of her neighbors lost their homes as well; they couldn't fathom why this had happened. However, in an interview, the mother told the reporter, "I don't understand why this happened; it's just an act of God!"

The question I pose to you is, Why does God always get the bad rap for every horrific and unexplainable thing that happens in our lives? Every unexplainable act is not "an act of God." More often than not, people, in their inept attempt to make sense of tragic situations, assume it is God. I have compassion for people who have suffered a great loss, and I really want people to understand that God is not behind the tragedies in our lives. God gives life, not death and tragedy. Satan, the thief, is the one who steals, kills, and destroys—not God! In fact, God is the One who seeks to restore everything the enemy has stolen.

God is the giver of good and perfect gifts. He loves and protects you from the wiles of your adversary. No matter what happens in your life, make the decision that you will praise God. In the good and in the bad, God is worthy to be praised. Rest assured that your praise will bring you into a peaceful place, and release the hand of God to restore everything that was stolen from you.

— Dr. Creflo A. Dollar