Making Sense of Malaysia’s Floods

The nationwide floods that hit Malaysia before Christmas last year has come as a shock, and was a grim way to end and start the New Year. Amidst a celebratory mood, a national crisis had struck again. Now that the waters have receded in affected states, cleanup operations are ongoing. How are we to make sense of it all?

Crisis cleanup

If there’s one thing we’ve seen throughout the pandemic and the flooding, it’s that Malaysians are quick to mobilise and reach out to help others. We are always ready to do so, and quick to do it. From praying to giving to physically going out to rescue, transport or clean, Christians can live out their faith through taking actions (James 2:17).

Creation care

Perhaps it’s time to take climate justice seriously, as floods occur regularly in Malaysia. Though we may be tempted to think “climate change” is a first world problem, nature and creation are God’s handiwork. We are not to live recklessly and cause damage to our home on earth. Let’s take up the mantle of being good stewards and managers of our environment (Genesis 1:28).

Changing conduct

We can begin with the little things, like changing our lifestyles, habits and the way we live. The everyday layman can play their part by recycling, not littering, reducing single-use plastic cutleries, driving less or even turning on the aircond less. We may think, “Is it all worth it? Are my small efforts going to make any difference?” The truth is, all things were created in, through and for Jesus (Colossians 1:16-17). Therefore, we are to take action, big and small, to honour God.

The floods have brought many challenges to our nation and its people. But throughout Scripture, God promises to care for us, guide us and be with His people. We can hold on to His assurance that even when we pass through the waters and the difficult situations, He is always with us.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” (Isaiah 43:2)

>>READ: Through the waters (Our Daily Bread)

>>READ: What is our way of life? (Our Daily Bread)

>>READ: Dive deeper into creation care (YMI)

About the Author

Wan Phing Lim is a contributor to Our Daily Bread Ministries Malaysia. Born and raised in Penang, she studied Politics before turning to a career in writing. She loves coffee, books and films.

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