What should I do when I am separated from the people I respect or love?

2 Chronicles 24:2, 17Joash did what was pleasing in the Lord’s sight throughout the lifetime of Jehoiada the priest. . . . But after Jehoiada’s death, the leaders of Judah came and bowed before King Joash and persuaded him to listen to their advice.

Esther 2:7-8This man had a very beautiful and lovely young cousin, Hadassah, who was also called Esther. When her father and mother died, Mordecai adopted her into his family and raised her as his own daughter. As a result of the king’s decree, Esther, along with many other young women, was brought to the king’s harem at the fortress of Susa and placed in Hegai’s care.

Daniel 1:3, 6Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, his chief of staff, to bring to the palace some of the young men of Judah’s royal family and other noble families, who had been brought to Babylon as captives. . . . Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were four of the young men chosen, all from the tribe of Judah.

When others are absent, we must continue to be obedient to God and trust him to send us help and support. Some biblical figures, such as Esther and Daniel, were faithful to God even after being forcibly separated from their families. Others, such as Joash, were faithful to God only while a spiritual mentor was directly guiding them. When other influences pressed against them, they turned away from God. Even if others cannot see what we are doing, God does, and he will reward our obedience under trial. No matter who is absent from our lives, we should persevere and be faithful.