For the 7D: Turn the camera on-Press the AF point selection button for a few seconds(this is on the back-side top right side of the camera)- this allows you to move the selected point around but for this we don't need to move anything- now press the M-Fn button (located next to the front wheel on the top right). Each time you press the M-Fn button, the selection changes (Look at the LCD on the back ) and choose the setting you want- I set mine to the single box right in the middle and it took care of my problems. Choose what works for you!!! wait a few seconds and the LCD will go back to normal-
You are done!!!
When all else fails-READ THE BOOK!!!!!

Most point and shoots are about 24-28mm at the wide angle setting. You may find a point and shoot that has a adapter lens that will make a wider shot- I know they make them for Telephoto shots. There is a new idea that has hit the market that would work for you- they are now making point and shoots that take panorama shots automatically. You set up the camera for a pano shot- push the button, and physically turn your body to take a wide series of shots- the thing is, the camera stitches the shot together for you- you don't have to do anything!!!! Or you can take a series of shots and use software to stitch the photos together yourself... Both work so well, you cannot tell it is more than one shot!!! Canon,Sony and I know more brands make these now!!!

It is best to set your camera in Manual position- about f/8, and set the time for about 10-15 seconds or a bit more. Place your camera on a tripod(a must) use a remote to click the shutter. Now you have to be in a fairly dark area!!! You just keep shooting- you will shoot a few hundred shots-
Just keep shooting and hopefully you will grab a few shots- aim to an area where you see most of the lightning! Now if you are trying daylight lightning... forget every thing I just wrote... I have never done that!!

First of all - buy the best camera you can afford- to buy a cheapie and not be happy you will waste your money- that said- Any of the Canon Rebels, or Nikons are great cameras!! Stay away from the glorified point and shoot cameras as most will not give you as sharp a photo as the Canon and Nikons. You get what you pay for!!
Now - just remember YOU- have to "MAKE" the picture, not "Take" the picture. The photographs that are winners are made between the ears!! not by the camera!!

I have had a 7D for almost a year now and experienced the same problem. Just as Ronald Lewis stated- if you set your camera to just the center focusing points I'm quite sure your problem will go away! I have mine set with a center square and one on each side of center and I have not had any more problems. If you still have problems, make sure your ISO is high enough- the 7D can shoot with Very High ISOs and have no noise problems! Great Camera!!