By Zhang Hang, United States
Recently, many media outlets reported that Mangkhut, the 22nd typhoon of this year, attacked the Philippines, Hong Kong, Macao, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan and other places, causing serious casualties and grave damage to houses and other buildings.
On September 16, at least 64 people were killed, 33 people were injured, and 45 people were missing in the Philippines due to Typhoon Mangkhut. When it landed in Guangdong, China, two people were killed, and many were missing. As of 5:00 p.m., 213 Hong Kong citizens were injured in the typhoon. The typhoon caused waves to enter the 5th floor of residential buildings in Heng Fa Chuen in the Chai Wan residential area. More than 7,000 households in Hong Kong lost power, and the local schools were suspended on the 17th. In addition, 15 people were injured in Macao. These are only the preliminary statistics on September 16. The total deaths, injuries, and losses caused by the typhoon have not yet been calculated.
In videos on major websites, the typhoon directly blows down trees. The windows of many residences are blown out, and dozens of high-rise residential buildings are also swayed by the typhoon. Some people who are walking outside in typhoon are simply swept away by the wind and water. One netizen left a message saying, “This is awful!” Others left wishes for the safety of residents in these areas! Yes, we all hope that everyone will be safe when disasters come, but our only power in this situation is to hope. Human ability is tiny when such disasters strike. Only God can give us peace. God is our refuge. The Bible says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). “A thousand shall fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you” (Psalm 91:7).
God says, “Only I am the true God; only I am your refuge. You can only now hide in My secret place, only within Me, and the disasters will not befall you and no calamity will come near to your tent.” Those who come before God have God’s care and protection in disasters, and are followed by the grace of God.
