What do you say to your children...

When they ask, "Why...why are those people doing those mean things?" with tears in their eyes.

When they ask, "Why...why now, when we were just getting ready to go have a fun time?" as they try to figure out how the event this will affect life...their life...their world.

When they ask, "Why...what will happen now?  What will we do?" as they admit to fear of the unknown.

Are you prepared to give an answer to the reason of hope that lieth within you? 
I say I believe that God controls everything that happens in our life. 
So...do I believe that God is in control when rough things actually happen? 
Always easier said than done, right?  How will I act upon what I say I believe?
God knew the very events of the day and the situations before I even stumbled out of bed...and He went ahead with His plan...while I sipped my coffee and started the day. 
What took me by surprise...didn't take Him by surprise!  And I could say to our children..."God already knew and it will be ok!"
Can I say...You had better be ready to give an answer to your children.  In their young faith, desire to do right, and follow the Lord, they need to know that you are trusting God...even in uncomfortable or upsetting circumstances.  Will they see you waver on this one?  on the next one?  God allows hard things to happen in your life...not just once or twice...but multiple times.  Why?  I don't know...I don't need to know more than that He allowed it...right now. 
Your heart better be right with God, so you can help your children deal with the hurt and anger...even as you are dealing with it.  They need to know there will be a struggle with those feelings.  They need to know Who you talk to when that happens.  They need to see you draw them to yourself in a big hug...and pray together..."taking your burdens to the Lord and leaving them there"...and then going on with your day.
You had better know what to say...and then do it!  You had better not waver...even with tears streaming down your face!  You had better gather those children close...hold them...pray with them...and listen to their tender hearts.
"You know, Mom, it is just like Daddy taught in junior church a week ago!  The Bible says we are to give thanks in everything...not just for things!  We are to be thankful...even in the hard things!"  said Alisa.  My heart surged within me..."We've been to scary things before, haven't we?  And we know that God is good...and He takes care of His own.  He didn't say things wouldn't be scary or hard...He said He would take care of us!  When you are afraid...we can trust in Him!  When it gets to hard to focus...ask Him for His help.  He will help you...us...again and again!"
We have taught this...over and over...now we needs more than words!