Where Is God in a World Gone Mad?

In the face of tragedy, violence, and seemingly senseless suffering, it’s natural to ask:

Where is God?

This age-old question has echoed through generations, especially in times of hardship. When young lives are cut short, when violence erupts in unexpected places, or when the world seems to be spiraling into chaos, we often find ourselves searching for answers and struggling to make sense of it all.

But what if—even in the midst of apparent madness—God is still at work? What if, contrary to our perceptions, He hasn’t abandoned us but is fully engaged in our world, even when it seems to be drifting far from His ways?
 of hope.

The story of the prophet Elijah, found in 1 and 2 Kings, reminds us that God is present and active even in a society that has lost its way.

During the reign of King Ahab, who “did more evil in the eyes of the Lord than any of those before him,” Israel fell into deep moral and spiritual decay. Idolatry flourished, and the nation’s very foundations seemed to be crumbling—much like how our world feels today.

And yet, in the middle of this corruption, God raised up Elijah.

Without introduction, Elijah appeared with a bold message: there would be no rain for years except at his word. This drought—fulfilling the warnings of Deuteronomy—was both judgment and a call to repentance.

Through Elijah’s story, we see several ways God works in a world that feels like it has gone mad:

• God can work through one person. Even when we feel alone, God can use one faithful person to make an eternal impact.

• Sometimes God lets actions speak. He doesn’t always explain Himself, but He allows choices to unfold so we might see His hand in them.

• God provides for His messengers. When Elijah spoke God’s hard truth, God sustained him—sending ravens to bring him food by the Kerith Ravine.

• God works in us before working through us. Elijah’s time in isolation was preparation. In the same way, God shapes our hearts before using us in visible ways.

• God’s provision includes both giving and taking away. Elijah experienced food and water provided, but also the loss of community and security. Both shaped him for what was ahead.

Elijah’s story is powerful, but the greatest evidence of God’s presence isn’t found in the Old Testament—it’s found in Jesus Christ.

In a time of Roman oppression and unrest, God entered our world. Jesus lived among people facing political turmoil, social confusion, and spiritual need—not unlike today.

Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus showed us that:

• No situation is too dark for God to enter.
• No problem is too complex for Him to solve.
• No brokenness is beyond His power to redeem.

By taking our sin to the cross, Jesus opened the way for reconciliation—not just for a moment, but for eternity.

This truth gives us an unshakable hope:

• God is sovereign and in control, even when the world feels chaotic.
• He can use individuals to bring about lasting change.
• His care for us often shows up in unexpected ways.
• He is shaping our hearts for His purposes.
• The ultimate proof of His love is found in Jesus Christ.

So the next time you’re tempted to ask, “Where is God?” in the midst of pain or confusion, remember: He is with us. He is for us. He is at work—even when we cannot see it.

This post only scratches the surface of Elijah’s story and God’s presence in our broken world.

→ You’re invited to watch the full sermon to dive deeper into this message of hope.