Reprinted with permission of Restore America.

All America watched with concern--wondering what the outcome would be--as Hurricane Katrina swept through the waters of the Caribbean and slammed into the Gulf Coast states of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. And now we know...or do we? The devastation of property, the disruption of commerce, the ensuing misery of tens of thousands, was reported continuously on television along with the tragic effects upon families, children, the elderly, the poor, the infirm and even those called to serve. Uncontrollable looting, murder, and rape, the ransacking of hospitals by the lawless seeking drugs--even gunshots fired at the police and emergency servers--followed the breakdown of law enforcement. Radio and television talking heads, bureaucrats, victimologists, columnists, pundits, politicians, and poor alike, all pointed fingers. As at the time of the attack on the Twin Towers, however, many thoughtful Americans are asking, "Why did this happen?" There is an answer to this question, but with the answer comes another question, whether we--and our leaders--will choose to heed it. The answer is found in understanding that man is not in control. God is! Everything in the sky, the sea and on earth is subject to His control. Psalm 107:25-33 says, "He raiseth the stormy wind which lifted up the waves of the sea...He turns rivers into a desert, and springs of water into a thirsty ground; a fruitful land into a salt waste, because of the wickedness of those who dwell in it." Was there wickedness in New Orleans, Alabama and Mississippi? Well, let's see. There was the burgeoning Gulf Coast gambling industry, with a new casino that was to open on Labor Day weekend. But of course, what is a little gambling if it supports 'education' and brings revenue into government coffers? And then there was the 34th Annual gay, lesbian and transgender "Southern Decadence" Labor Day gala to be held from August 31st to September 5th. Welcomed by the last three mayors and City Council, this socially and politically acceptable flaunting of depravit--that has grown each year--was expected to draw 100,000 visitors and millions of dollars to the New Orleans business community and local government. But what is a little sodomy and immorality if it brings in money to the temple and gives everyone a little fun? Further, there is the well-known corruption, drugs, and immoral playground of the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and New Orleans itself, one of America's wink-and-a smile getaways for fun and pagan pleasure...and more money for business and government. The Psalmist goes on to say in v. 39: "When they (the people) are diminished and bowed down through oppression, misery, and sorrow, He pours contempt upon their princes (business and government leaders), and makes them wander in a pathless waste." What Americans observed on their television sets was a stunning, even prophetic snapshot of precisely what the Psalmist--over 2000 years ago--depicted for a people who are under ungodly leadership...a window into the future of all Americans under the anti-God, morally challenged, secular princes in state, local and federal government. Far too many of our elected officials erroneously believe we can profitably engage in government-approved sin, without consequence for both the righteous and the unrighteous! Why did this happen? When a people--particularly those in positions of leadership and responsibility--scorn and reject the One to whom they will one day answer, embracing instead what He has declared wrong and abominable--for pleasure and money--God will act in judgment, using all at his disposal to accomplish His will, including the wind and the waves. Katrina was an act of God upon a sin-loving and rebellious nation, a warning to all who foolishly and arrogantly believe there is no God, and that if He did exist, "would not have done such a thing!" It is also a serious call to repent, to turn away from our wicked ways, from the heart of a loving Father.

The Writer of Psalm 107 closes by saying, "Who is wise? Let him give heed to these things, and consider the Loving kindness of the LORD."