A Pastor's Experience and Insights of the Hawaiian Tsunami Warnings

NOAA Simulation of Tsunami

Our vacation in Hawaii turned into a truly unforgettable experience that we will remember for the rest of our lives.

An 8.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Russia, triggering tsunami warnings across the Pacific Ocean. Here in Hawaii, we were instructed to evacuate to higher ground. But from start to finish, the hand of the Lord was evident. We filled up with gas early, before the long lines and congestion. We had dinner at a lovely restaurant with wonderful people to hang out with as the alerts were coming in. After finding my veteran's documentation, we found overnight accommodations on Mt. Kilauea, at a military camp that is perched on top of a volcano.

I thank the Lord that no lives were lost on the islands, and by morning, the Hawaiian tsunami threat had passed. We witnessed firsthand what it means for God to be a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Here are three truths this moment made crystal clear:

1. Storms Will Threaten Us

Jesus didn’t promise an easy life — He promised we’d face tribulation (John 16:33). Earthquakes shake the ground, sirens wail in the night, and sometimes the waves really do come crashing in. But whether it’s a physical disaster, a spiritual battle, or a personal crisis, Scripture reminds us that trials are not the absence of God, but the place where His presence is most powerfully revealed (Isaiah 43:2). The shaking reminds us this world is not our home (Hebrews 12:27-28).

2. God Provides

Before we even knew what we needed, God prepared the way. From gas in the car to unexpected shelter on the mountain, His provision was personal and precise. Scripture calls Him Jehovah Jireh — the Lord who provides (Genesis 22:14). In the wilderness or in a tsunami warning zone, He knows how to care for His own. “Even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me” (Psalm 139:10). We don’t worship a distant God — we walk with a Shepherd who never sleeps nor slumbers (Psalm 121:3-4).

3. The Earth is Groaning & Jesus is Coming Soon

We need to stop treating global chaos as background noise. Earthquakes, wars, and strange weather patterns are not random but prophetic warnings (Matthew 24:7-8). These are birth pains. Every tremor is a reminder that Jesus is returning, and He’s not far off. Romans 8:22 says that “the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.” The very crust of the earth is preaching a message: Wake up, repent, and look up. The King is at the door (Revelation 22:12).

Church, the signs are all around us. This was the sixth most powerful earthquake ever recorded. Seismic activity of earthquakes over 6.0 magnitude has increased 300 percent in the last 15 days. 

These are signs we cannot ignore. We are witnessing a massive shaking in the world, both literally and spiritually, just as Jesus said. Are you ready?