Note: When this article was written, the news reports were telling of rampant lawlessness and massive death in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.  We are thankful to God that it turns out there was not nearly so much death and mayhem as was reported. However, the principles spoken of here are still true, and the point of God's grace to this nation is even further emphasized.

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We cannot help but be moved by the images coming to us from New Orleans and the surrounding areas.  To us citizens of the U.S., such stories are supposed to come from somewhere else; some third-world country or “heathen” nation; but not here in the good ol’e USA.  It is not for me to determine if this is some judgment from God for any of the sins of our nation: the purposes of God are beyond my ken.  But, it would be no injustice on God’s part if he were to visit this nation with such judgments. In our prosperity, we have forgotten the God that blesses us so.  In the name of our rights, we have banned His Word from our public institutions.  In the name of choice, we have murdered countless babies.  In the name of freedom we have pursued every form of depravity and debauchery our wicked minds can conceive even calling such evil good.  And worst of all, the religion that bears the name of the Lord of Glory has prostituted herself to the world of entertainment and politics.  If He does not bring even more severe judgments on this nation, then once again He proves what a gracious, compassionate and patient God He is!

 But, judgment or not, there are several truths on display in New Orleans.

 1. That no one is immune from trouble in this world.  We are the most powerful nation that has ever existed, but we are helpless against such calamities.  God “sneezes” and one of our cities is buried in water. Nahum 1:6 Who can withstand his indignation? Who can endure his fierce anger? His wrath is poured out like fire; the rocks are shattered before him.

2. That governments, despite their many failures, are good and necessary for our safety.  What barbarism breaks out when there is no government.  How thankful to God we should be for a military and police force that protects civil life!  Let us pray for those who lead us and defend us  that we may live peaceably and in safety as we worship our God. 1 Timothy 2.1,2

3.  That man is as depraved as the Scriptures show him to be.  As soon as the restraints of government are removed, looting, violence, and pandemonium ensue.  Look to the vilest acts going on in New Orleans right now, and you see what each of us is apart from the restraining hand of God.

4.  That we are very blessed.  Such occurrences as in New Orleans are rare.  God pours out on us abundant blessings every day.  Let us be certain to give Him the thanks due to Him!