Absence

Absence

Is God absent in my times of trouble?

God’s Response

O LORD, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way? How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand? Psalm 13:1-2

I can never escape from your spirit! I can never get away from your presence! . . . If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. Psalm 139:7, 9-10

God never promised that by believing in him your life would be free from trouble. In fact, he promised that by believing him, your life would probably have trouble because you have declared sides and now you have Satan as an enemy. Knowing this truth does not make your troubles easier, but because God predicted this trouble and knows the events of your life before they occur, you can move through troubling times without fear. When you face times of suffering, sorrow, or loneliness, remember that God is close beside you and knows that the outcome will be victory for you.

God’s Promise

Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. Psalm 23:4