If God is in control, why is the world so out of sorts?

on Oct 9, 2025

Hand writing text Skeptics Day on calendar date. Dreamstime/TCA

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I watched a documentary on the state of the world and the horrible storms that befall this planet and its people. There were skeptics interviewed who declared that if there is a God who is in control, the world would not be so out of control. My conscience tells me they are wrong, but I can’t quite say why. Help! – O.C.

A: The world seems to be careening toward destruction. Voices of doubters and skeptics cry out, “What kind of God allows terrible things like treacherous weather, disease, and even pandemics to ravage?”

Millions of people throughout the world are suffering from injustice, political oppression, and a host of other terrors. The entire world seems to be a hospital, a mortuary, or a graveyard, with people asking the same question: “Who is in control?”

The Bible tells us that God is the Ruler of the universe – and all of creation. “Both riches and honor come from You, and You reign over all. In Your hand is power and might” (1 Chronicles 29:12, NKJV).

This same mighty God is also a loving God who brings good out of bad, light out of darkness, and joy out of despair.

“God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases” (Psalm 115:3, NKJV), and the Bible is clear that God wants all people to come to a saving knowledge of His Son, Jesus Christ, as Savior and Lord, and He wants to reign in us to guide, direct, and care for us.

Behind the love of God lies His omniscience – His ability to know and understand all. Omniscience is that quality of God which is His alone. He possesses infinite knowledge and an awareness uniquely His. At all times, even in the midst of any type of suffering, He knows, loves, watches, understands, and – more than that – He has a purpose. May we pray for His purpose in our lives and receive His amazing grace.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)