I think that this is a huge question to grapple with and it is an important one to deal with in times of tragedy.

Jeremiah 2:1-37

Reference:  v.27  They say to wood, 'You are my father,' and to stone, 'You gave me birth.'   They have turned their backs to me and not their faces; yet when they are in trouble, they say, 'Come and save us!' (NIV Bible)

Explore:  Whether it's a terrorist attack, a natural disaster or a personal disappointment, the question is often heard, 'How could God allow this to happen?'  I think that this is a huge question to grapple with and it is an important one to deal with in times of tragedy.  However I would love it if people would ask this question, not just at a time of devastation, but also at a time of ecstasy.  When you stand in front of some profound natural beauty; when your company gives out substantial Christmas bonuses; when you fall in love with someone who loves you in return: 'How could God allow this to happen?'  I think we would have a greater perspective of life if we looked to God at these times of great joy, as well as the times of pain.

Application:  It seems our response to turn to God only when disaster hits is not a new phenomenon.  Once the Israelites were established in the Promised Land they soon began to worship other things but had the audacity to question the Lord when times turned bad.  I'm not saying that we should not question why things happen, but I think it is important for us to look to God in all situations and strive to understand what the pain, as well as the joy, means.

Prayer:  Lord, You are there, through the pain and the joy.  May we always look to You for comfort and celebration.  Amen. 

Look at a situation you are going through at the moment and ask, 'How could God allow this to happen?'