The London Riots and the Will of God

Living overseas, our family has taken a special interest in keeping up with international news and sometimes using that as a basis for discussion about God’s workings in this world.

Often, when we read about and see reports of events such as the London riots, which took place August 6-10 of this year, we’re prone to think, “What’s this world coming to? Why is God allowing this to happen? The whole world is just going crazy!” I recall having some of the same thoughts during the L.A. riots in ’92, and while watching the twin towers fall on 9-11.

Psalm 76:11 reads, “Surely the wrath of man shall praise You.”

In his commentary on this verse, Charles Spurgeon (see http://www.spurgeon.org/mainpage.htm for more of his writings) gives a remarkable illustration that helps give us a proper perspective on such events. Spurgeon writes:

“Meanwhile, the Lord has a muzzle and a chain for bears. He restrains the more furious wrath of the enemy. He is like a miller who holds back the mass of the water in the stream, and what He does allow to flow He uses for the turning of His wheel. Let us not sigh, but sing. All is well, however hard the wind blows.”

Let’s not be afraid or discouraged, but pray for God to have mercy on us. Let us continue to reverently submit to His will daily, enjoying sweet fellowship with Him, and let even world events such as these remind us that God is ultimately in charge.