Reflections on Cambodia’s First Earthquake and Jeremiah 17:7
Last Friday, something unexpected happened in Cambodia—a slight tremor shook Phnom Penh, sending people into panic. For a country known for its safe topography, free from natural disasters like earthquakes, this was a shocking and frightening experience.
Coming from the Philippines, where earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions are common, I’ve been trained to expect emergencies. Even now, I keep flashlights and whistles in our bags, a habit ingrained in me since childhood. But for many Cambodians, this was a first—a sudden reminder that life is fragile, and safety is never guaranteed.
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| Devastating Earthquake (Myanmar) CNN |
Trusting God in the Midst of Earthquakes and Uncertainty
The earthquake’s epicenter was in Myanmar, where the damage was devastating. Buildings collapsed, lives were lost, and a nation already struggling with political unrest was struck with yet another tragedy. My heart breaks for them. At church last Sunday, we prayed for Myanmar, knowing that while we may not be there physically, our prayers can move mountains.
In moments like these, we’re reminded of how unpredictable life is. But we’re also reminded of God’s sovereignty—that even in disasters, He is in control. This leads me to one of my favorite verses:
"But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him." - Jeremiah 17:7 (NIV)
This verse has been my anchor, especially in uncertain times. I want to share my reflections on five truths from this passage and how we can apply them in light of this earthquake and other trials we face.
Five Truths from Jeremiah 17:7
1. Trusting God Brings Blessing, Not Fear
The verse begins with a promise: "Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord."
In a world where earthquakes shake our sense of security, God offers an unshakable foundation.
When my students were afraid, I had to remain calm because they were looking to me for guidance. In the same way, when life shakes us, we must look to God—our ultimate source of peace. The world may panic, but those who trust in Him are blessed with His presence and assurance.
**Reflection: Are you facing a situation that feels like an earthquake in your life? Financial instability? Health concerns? Family struggles? God says you are *blessed* when you trust Him—not because the storm disappears, but because He walks with you through it.
2. Confidence in God - Confidence in Circumstances
The second part of the verse says, "whose confidence is in Him." Confidence placed in anything else—our jobs, our safety, our governments—will eventually disappoint. Myanmar’s pagodas and ancient structures crumbled in seconds. Even the most stable things on earth can fail.
But when our confidence is in God, we have a hope that doesn’t waver. My husband and I were discussing how recent events—political unrest, moral shifts in Thailand (the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage), and now this earthquake—feel like signs of the times. But instead of fear, we must fix our eyes on Christ, the only unshakable King.
**Reflection: Where is your confidence right now? In your savings account? In your health? In human leaders? Or in the One who holds the universe together?
3. Trusting God Doesn’t Mean We Ignore Reality
Some might say, "If you trust God, why prepare for disasters? Why keep emergency kits?" But faith isn’t recklessness. I had to guide my students safely down the stairs—that wasn’t a lack of faith; it was wisdom.
God calls us to be **"wise as serpents and harmless as doves"** (Matthew 10:16). Trusting Him doesn’t mean we don’t take precautions; it means we do our part while relying on Him for the outcome.
**Reflection: Are you balancing faith with wisdom? Are you praying *and* preparing? Trusting God doesn’t mean being passive—it means seeking His guidance in every step.
4. Storms Reveal Where Our Trust Really Lies
When the ground shakes, our true foundation is exposed. Some people in Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar may have never thought about eternity until now.
As believers, we have an opportunity to point others to Christ—not with condemning words, but with compassionate actions and prayers. We may not be in Myanmar, but we can:
- Pray for victims and rescue workers.
- Give through reputable organizations.
- Share the hope of Jesus with those who are fearful.
**Reflection: How can you be a light in this situation? Maybe it’s checking on a neighbor who’s anxious or sharing a Scripture with a friend.
5. God’s Plans Are Higher Than Our Understanding
We don’t know why disasters happen, but we know God is still good. He sees the bigger picture. Romans 8:28 reminds us that "all things work together for good to those who love God." That doesn’t mean the earthquake was "good," but God can bring redemption from tragedy.
Maybe this event will:
- Turn hearts toward Him.
- Unite believers in prayer.
- Remind us that life is short—eternity matters.
**Reflection: Instead of asking "Why, God?" ask "What now, God? How can I trust You more?"
A Call to Action: How Will You Respond?
1. Pray.
For Myanmar, for those affected, for our own hearts to remain steadfast.
2. Prepare.
Physically (emergency kits), but more importantly, spiritually—are you rooted in Christ?
3. Proclaim.
Share hope. Be a calming presence in a fearful world.
A Simple Prayer
"Heavenly Father, in the midst of shaking ground and shaking hearts, we run to You. Thank You for Your protection over Cambodia and for Your mercy even in tragedy. Comfort those in Myanmar who have lost so much. Help us to trust You more, to place our confidence not in the temporary things of this world but in You—the unshakable Rock. Give us wisdom to prepare, courage to stand firm, and love to share Your hope with others.
In Jesus’ name, Amen."
*If this encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope today. Let’s be light in the darkness! 💛
Family Serving in Cambodia,
The Hourngs! 💕🙏
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