The Truth About God’s Nature

Dr. Michael Youssef, Ph.D. Leading the Way

 

Tragedy is unavoidable. Not only will we have to face personal tragedies in our lives, but each generation faces gut-wrenching communal tragedies. In tragic moments, it seems evil has prevailed and we are reminded of the undeniable presence of sin in this world. In these moments, the question quickly arises: "Where is God?"

 

The Truth is God is not afraid of our questions. He is not surprised, offended, or threatened by our inability to comprehend every spiritual working of the universe. He has nothing to hide from us because He is blameless in character. In the face of what we do not know, we can cling to what we do know about Christ’s character.

 

In John 10:10-11, Jesus likens His leadership to that of a trustworthy shepherd. In stark contrast, He describes Satan’s role as that of a thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. Many live in terror of their gods, offering sacrifices with the hope that their god will withhold sickness, death, and destruction from their families and cities. But our God is not like these false gods.

 

Jesus specifically came “to destroy the devil’s work” (1 John 3:8). Our God became like us, entering into our suffering so that He could bring us life. Our God does not deceive, but abhors evil, delights in the Truth, and brings justice. Our God does not add to our misery or demand the impossible from us, but He paid our penalty on the cross. He is not passive; He is at work in us and around us. When we pray, He responds, breaking spiritual strongholds and delivering us from snares we aren’t even aware of.

 

So where is God? He is with us, in us, and ahead of us. In the midst of tragedy, He is working behind the scenes with a plan to glorify Himself and bless those who follow Him. What is God’s response to evil? He overcomes it.

 

Are you confident that the light of Christ is more powerful than evil? Are you searching for perfect answers, or are you willing to trust that God is good, God is in control, and He loves you? Whether you are hurting or looking for answers, bring them before the Lord today. He is not the antagonist in the story—He is the one ready to comfort us and lead us into all Truth.

 

Prayer: Lord, even when my circumstances are hopeless, I know that You are still good. Help me to trust in You and depend on You in every circumstance. Help me to be ready to share Your love and Your Truth when tragedy strikes. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

 

“The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work” (1 John 3:8).

Check out more from Dr. Michael Youssef, here!

About The Author

Dr. Michael Youssef, Ph.D.

Even before he was born, it is clear that God had a vision for Michael Youssef. His mother was in poor health when she became pregnant with Michael, and because his life was in danger at the time of birth, the doctor recommended terminating the pregnancy. An abortion was scheduled. But God intervened and sent the family pastor to reassure them that God was involved in this pregnancy. He told them not to be afraid and that the child would be "born to serve the Lord." Michael's parents accepted the pastor's message as a message from God and obeyed. His mother gave birth, and lived to see him give his life to the Lord at the age of sixteen.


Believing that God had called him out of Egypt, Michael sought an exit visa in a time in which no university student was allowed to have a passport or leave the country. God intervened again, and miraculously he managed to acquire a visa. He immigrated to Australia, where he studied at Moore Theological College in Sydney, was ordained as a pastor, and met Elizabeth who became his wife.


The Youssefs came to America in 1977, and in 1978 Michael received a master's degree in theology at Fuller Theological Seminary in California. Then he earned a doctorate in social anthropology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Michael served nearly ten years in the Haggai Institute, traveling around the world more than 32 times, teaching courses in evangelism and leadership. He rose to the position of Managing Director at the age of 31 years. The family settled in Atlanta, and in 1984, Michael became a citizen of the United States, making his dream of many years come true.


He founded The Church of The Apostles in 1987 with fewer than 40 adults with the mission of "Equipping the Saints and Searching for the Lost". The church has since grown to be a congregation of over 3,000 people today. This church has driven the international ministry of Leading the Way. While it is heard by millions at home and abroad, behind every message preached through radio waves, is the heart of a pastor, willing to nurture and care for these people. Clearly God has uniquely equipped Dr. Youssef to speak to a global audience. The path he has taken has given him an understanding and firm grasp of the Scriptures that transcend cultures. He preaches, teaches and calls with a sincere, based on the authority of the inerrant, inspired Word of God. With his personal knowledge of the Holy Land, its history and culture, Dr. Michael Youssef transmits life to listeners all over the world.

More Posts by Dr. Michael Youssef, Ph.D.:

  1. Asking for God’s Vision
  2. Praying the Will of God
  3. He Can Open Your Eyes
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