No Separation

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:38–39 esv

Sometimes when we sense the presence of God, it leaves us speechless. We might feel his presence on a quiet walk in nature or after we have spent our one-on-one time with him. Sometimes we feel his presence during a worship gathering. Such closeness is like no other feeling. The holy God, who sits high on his throne, makes his presence known to us—sinners who can so easily neglect our relationship with him. Yet, day after day, his presence is there when we seek him.

Even when we do our part to connect with him, sometimes we feel separated from the Lord. How can that be? We’ve spent time with him. We’ve experienced a peace or joy that we cannot explain, but then something happens that leaves us feeling alone. A death. A job loss. A regret. An illness. We can feel as though we are behind a wall with no doors or windows. We cry out and hear no response. We think we are alone.

When we are distracted by the darkness of whatever we are going through, it can be easy to forget what Scripture says. Today’s passage tells us that nothing separates us from his love. He is there for us. He is aware of what is occurring and even though we may not see it or feel it, he is already working out his plan concerning us. We must call out to God, in faith, trusting he is still there, and he hears us.

Two prisoners whose cells adjoin communicate with each other by knocking on the wall. The wall is the thing which separates them but is also their means of communication. It is the same with us and God. Every separation is a link.

Simone Weil

When you are wired to God in a unique way, nothing can separate you from the love of God.

T. B. Joshua

Nothing can separate you from God’s love, absolutely nothing. God is enough for time, God is enough for eternity. God is enough!

Hannah Whitall Smith

For Further Reflection

Romans 8:31; 2 Timothy 4:17; John 3:16

Today’s Prayer

Father, there are times when I cannot feel your presence. In those times, I am likely to forget your promise of always being with me. Please help me remember that even in my darkest times, you are right by my side. Amen.