The World is Changing: Where Is God?

We cannot deny that the world is changing. From the rise of advanced technology and global connectivity to political divisions, natural disasters, and moral upheavals, it feels like everything we once thought of as steady now shifts beneath our feet. The last few years alone have brought relentless challenges: the lingering effects of a global pandemic, increasing natural disasters, economic instability, war, and deep social divisions. For many, these changes provoke fear, anxiety, and an urgent question: “Where is God in all of this?”

If you’re asking this question, you’re not alone. When the world feels unstable, it’s natural for us to wonder if God is still present and working. Does he see the chaos? Does he hear the cries of the hurting? These questions are not new, and the Bible offers us both the space to wrestle with these feelings and the hope we desperately need.

The reality of the changing world

The rapid pace of change can leave us feeling unmoored. You might be overwhelmed by the 24-hour news cycle constantly reporting tragedies. School shootings have become distressingly frequent in the United States. Political and social divisions make it harder to find common ground. Natural disasters seem to intensify each year, and global tensions weigh heavily on our hearts. It feels like the world is groaning under the weight of it all, and we don’t know what to do or where to turn.

The Bible acknowledges this groaning. In Romans 8:22, Paul writes, “We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.” This groaning reflects the brokenness of a world scarred by sin. God sees the wars, natural disasters, and social unrest. This groaning reminds us that creation itself longs for redemption, just as we do.

But even as the world groans, we can take comfort in knowing that God has not abandoned us. Psalm 46:1-2 declares, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.” No matter how tumultuous the world becomes, God remains steadfast and unchanging.

Processing the pain

It’s okay for us to admit that these changes are hard. Many of us feel anxious and uncertain about the future. Maybe you’re worried about your job or finances. Maybe you’re grieving the loss of a loved one due to violence or illness. Maybe you’re exhausted by the constant conflict in our culture. Whatever you’re feeling, the Bible tells us that we can bring these emotions to God.

The Psalms are filled with raw, honest prayers from people wrestling with fear, doubt, and pain. Psalm 13 begins with David crying out, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” If you’ve ever felt abandoned by God or struggled to see his hand in difficult circumstances, you’re in good company. David’s words give us permission to cry out to God with our deepest questions and fears.

Notice how David ends his psalm: “But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me” (Psalm 13:5). Even in the midst of pain and uncertainty, David turns his focus back to God’s character. He remembers God’s faithfulness in the past and clings to the hope of his salvation. This example remains just as true for us today as it was for David.

Where is God in the change?

When the world feels unstable, we may be tempted to believe that God is absent or indifferent. But Scripture tells us otherwise. Jesus promised, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). Even in the midst of chaos, God is present and working.

One of the most tangible ways we see God’s presence is through his people. In times of crisis, the Church has an opportunity to shine as a beacon of hope and love. We see this in stories of communities coming together to support those impacted by disasters. We see it in individuals stepping up to mentor struggling youth or care for the marginalized. As believers, we are called to be Jesus' hands and feet in a hurting world.

Additionally, God invites us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and trust in his ultimate plan. “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11). This doesn’t mean that life will always be easy, but it does mean that God is sovereign and will use all things—even the hard and painful ones—for his glory and our good (Romans 8:28).

Navigating the complexity

So how do we live faithfully in a changing world? Here are a few practical steps:

Stay anchored in God’s Word 

The Bible contains unchanging truth in an ever-changing world. Spend time reading and meditating on Scripture daily to remind yourself of God’s character and promises.

Cultivate a consistent prayer life 

Prayer is not just about asking God for things; it’s about aligning our hearts with his and finding peace in his presence. Philippians 4:6-7, for example, encourages us to present our requests to God and promises that his peace will guard our hearts and minds.

Find community 

Don’t struggle with these challenges alone. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can encourage you, pray for you, and walk alongside you through life’s ups and downs.

Focus on eternity 

While it’s important to engage with the world around us and care for God’s creation, we must also remember that this life is not our ultimate home. Jesus promised that he has gone to prepare a place for us (John 14:2-3). Let this eternal perspective shape how respond to the changes going on around you.

Be a light 

Don’t let the darkness of the world overwhelm you. Instead, look for ways to reflect God’s love and hope to others. Whether through acts of kindness, sharing your faith, or simply listening to someone’s struggles, you can make a difference.

Hope in the gospel

The good news of the gospel is that we are not left to face this changing world alone. Jesus came to bring redemption, peace, and hope to a broken and chaotic world. Through his death and resurrection, we have the promise of eternal life and the assurance that God is making all things new.

The world will continue to change, but God remains the same. His love, faithfulness, and power are unchanging, and he promises to be with us every step of the way. Whatever challenges you may be facing today, take heart in this truth: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Trust in him, and let his presence be your anchor in the storm.

As you reflect on the changes in the world and in your own life, remember that you are not alone. God sees you and cares for you. He is at work even when it’s hard to see. Lean into his promises, seek his presence, and let his peace guide you. The world may change, but our God is faithful, and he will never let you go.