By Alex Murashko

The firestorm in West Maui, Hawaii last week left many in despair. Whether it’s firsthand experience, including the loss of loved ones, or anguish from afar, the pain is real.

Despite hard times, including those times when so much is unknown, Jesus is the one we can run to for the peace and comfort only He provides.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Meditate on These Things

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. — Philippians 4:6-9

No matter what you are going through, you can make a decision right now to live a fulfilled life in Jesus Christ. If you still need help making that decision to follow Him, click on this link: Tell Me About Jesus — Think Eternity with Matt Brown.

Think Eternity has compiled a list (below) of churches and organizations that we consider as reliable friends that are using donations to help the relief efforts in Maui. Also, an updated summary story (with link to full story) of Christian-led relief efforts (also below).

Churches, Ministries on the Ground to Bring Hope, Aid After Maui Fires

Amidst serious concerns as to whether government agencies appropriately handled the aftermath of a firestorm in West Maui, Hawaii, that killed 106 people with a death toll expected to rise, one thing is certain – local Hawaii, and mainland U.S. churches and ministries, have already activated relief efforts.

“There are very real needs right now, like basic supplies, housing, and employment. We are so grateful for the humanitarian organizations like Samaritan’s Purse that have come to support those needs. We believe, however, that our mission is to address the spiritual needs of the people of West Maui. The Church, and more specifically, our church at Harvest Kumulani Chapel has the mission to go and preach the Gospel like never before. Many people are asking spiritual questions. They are looking for hope and we want to be where the people are, there to help point them to Jesus, the one who is able to comfort them in this time of need.” — Greg Laurie

READ FULL STORY: Churches, ministries on the ground to bring hope, aid after Maui fires - here's how you can help - Washington Times

Convoy of Hope: Delivering Relief in Response to Hawaii Wildfires

Convoy of Hope continues to work with partners in Maui. Convoy is working to swiftly mobilize relief supplies to survivors who are in desperate need after historic wildfires destroyed the city of Lahaina. As of this morning, the death toll stood at 106.

Right now, it’s estimated that the fire has caused about $3.2 billion in property losses. Roughly 3,000 buildings were damaged or destroyed by fire, smoke, or both.

Convoy is committed to being in Maui for the long-term to provide the hope the community needs to heal from this tragedy.

READ UPDATES FROM CONVOY OF HOPE

Inspire Church MAUI RELIEF: Pray — Give — Support

Severe wildfires swept through Maui, causing widespread destruction. Homes and businesses were ruined, leaving the island devastated. Dedicated teams from national and local authorities are tirelessly assessing the damage and [still] fighting the flames. We're united in offering strong support to the resilient people of Maui.

In the midst of this difficult period, we are committed to being the hands and feet of Jesus by offering substantial support to our fellow brothers and sisters in Maui.

Here's how you can partner with Inspire Church to make a meaningful impact: Maui Relief (maui-relief.com)

Harvest Maui Relief

“If you or anyone would like to stand beside us as we minister to the Maui community, you can go to [visit Harvest Maui Relief Fund] for more info.” — Greg Laurie

What your gift supports:

• Providing tangible support to the people of Maui with emergency medical care, food, and shelter

• Helping first responders as they provide needed medical care to those injured by the fires

• Supporting means for the local church on Maui to reach out to their community with the gospel

• Distributing spiritual resources and pastoral care for the people of Maui

GO TO HARVEST MAUI RELIEF

Samaritan’s Purse: Responding to Hawaii’s Wildfires

Samaritan’s Purse Chief Operating Officer Edward Graham was on the flight to Hawaii. Monday night, he spoke on TBN’s Centerpoint program, “Sifting is extremely important. We may think it’s something simple, but it helps bring healing and closure like no other way for a homeowner.”

After arriving in Maui on Tuesday, Graham spoke to our staff and volunteers, reminding them to be sensitive in the midst of terrible suffering. “We know this is a horrible situation, so much loss and destruction,” he said of the deadly fires. He then went on to encourage them: “God gives us these resources, not to stay on a shelf somewhere, but He wants us to go out and love our neighbor. We get our name from the story of the Good Samaritan. We meet the immediate needs—we clothe, we give water, we give food, we give transportation.” All of our work provides us opportunities to share the hope that is in us, he said, the Good News that Jesus has paid our debt to bring us to God.

FOR UPDATES AND GIVING INFO GO TO Responding to Hawaii’s Wildfires (samaritanspurse.org)

Alex Murashko is lead writer for the Thinke writing team. His site Media on Mission features stories written by journalists with a biblical world view. Murashko is a contributor to Higher Ground at the Washington Times.

Connect: @AlexMurashko