Since we talk about the God of the old testament often let’s talk about the God of the New.
Post malachi:
Christ predicts the burning of Jerusalem, curses the jews for rejecting Christ, sinks cities, sends earthquakes floods, and fires. predicts a recall of old testament curses https://twitter.com/ldsbishop/status/1247649157344628743">https://twitter.com/ldsbishop...

He will release 4 horsemen, he will burn the wicked, he will fully recompense the oppressors (shown in our modern day as the nation crumbled into war and Jackson county was burned)
He destroys the Nephites,
He will separate the wheat from the chaff and burn the ungodly

Christ has poured out wars on all nations going from this place, Christ is the God of all the earth, including the sicknesses thereof.

Separating God from what he actually has said and done does not make a more understood God, just more comfortable sinners.

This is not to say that God is only justice, that he loves to inflict pain, many free gifts are given to man: agency and resurrection. But some gift are not free yet he consoles and heals those who look to him.

God is both just and merciful, especially in this dispensation.