Where was God on September 11, 2001?

TL;DR:

Although God allowed the events of 9/11, God was not absent. He worked through the courage of many to save lives and used the aftermath to draw people closer to Him.

On September 11, 2001, terrorists from the extremist group al-Qaeda hijacked four commercial airplanes, crashing two into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City and one into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The fourth plane, United Flight 93, was brought down in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers intervened. These events resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths, marking one of the deadliest attacks on U.S. soil. The Bible affirms that God is unchanging and sovereign. Hebrews 13:8 declares, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever," reminding us that God was neither absent nor surprised by the events of 9/11. Tragedy is part of the fallen world we inhabit due to sin, but God works all things according to His purposes (Romans 8:28).

from the old testament

The fall of humanity brought sin and suffering into the world, which continues to affect every aspect of life, including human actions (Genesis 3:17–19).
Isaiah 55:9 highlights God’s infinite wisdom, which often exceeds our ability to understand events like 9/11.
Even in the face of tragedy, God gives us hope. Psalm 46:1 tells us that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

from the new testament

Jesus reminds believers that suffering is inevitable, but His ultimate victory offers eternal hope. Although difficulties and evil occur in this world, we can have peace because He has overcome the world (John 16:33).
Salvation in Christ provides the ultimate resolution to the problem of sin and suffering (Ephesians 1:7).
Romans 8:28 assures believers that God can bring purpose and redemption out of even the darkest circumstances: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

implications for today

We must recognize that God did intervene in many positive ways on 9/11. For example, the plane that crashed in Pennsylvania was allegedly targeting the White House. Those who valiantly fought to stop this from taking place saved many lives. Many more individuals could have also died in New York and Washington if it had not been for the heroic efforts of countless volunteers and first responders. In addition, the increased focus on security since 9/11 has certainly stopped some further deadly attacks from taking place. While the full impact of such actions is difficult to measure, the lives saved have been many.

Not only were physical lives spared that day, but God also often uses tragedy to turn the hearts of people to Him—to save them spiritually. For example, after the attacks on 9/11, many people came to faith in Jesus Christ, and many Christians began to live out their faith more seriously. Countless lives were changed for eternity in the aftermath of 9/11, an outcome that is often overlooked.

While the horrific actions and numerous losses of life on 9/11 were a monumental devastation for many and should not be overlooked or belittled, this day was not without hope. God was at work even in the midst of tragedy, saving lives both physically and spiritually, while working His eternal plan in ways we will only fully understand in heaven. Though the pain of 9/11 endures, we can find hope in knowing that God is always at work, even in the midst of tragedy, and that His eternal plans will one day make all things new (Revelation 21:4).

understand

The Bible teaches that God’s sovereignty and purposes remain steadfast even in suffering.
God was not absent on September 11, 2001; He worked through acts of courage to save lives and brought hope in the aftermath of tragedy.
God uses all things, including the events of 9/11, for good.

reflect

How can trusting in God’s sovereignty bring you comfort during times of personal tragedy or uncertainty?
What examples from your life show how God worked through difficult circumstances to bring hope or redemption?
How does reflecting on God’s presence during tragic events, like 9/11, shape your understanding of His character?

engage

How does the Bible’s teaching on suffering and God’s sovereignty help us respond to events like 9/11?
How can we encourage others to see God’s presence and purpose in the midst of tragedy?
How can stories of courage and faith during 9/11 inspire us to trust God, as well as take action in our own lives today?