Where Are You, God?

“Oh, that I had someone to hear me! I sign now my defense—let the Almighty answer me; let my accuser put his indictment in writing. Job 31:35 

  

  I recently told someone that I do not doubt God’s existence. I have known Him for so long, seen His work in my life and the lives of others. Just like electricity, though I may not see it with my eyes, I see its effects, and know that it exists. 

  Yet there have been many times that I wondered when God was going to show up in a situation during a time of need and have asked, “Where are you, God?” I have feared He might be “late to the party,” that He seemed in no hurry to arrive on the scene. And there have been times that, like Job, I would have liked some answers to the difficulties my family, my friends, and I were facing. 

  I wonder if those who are ill have fewer problems believing that God exists because our illnesses force us into closer contact with God? We know how much we need Him, and we are less likely to ignore Him or stay away from Him. Our illnesses can draw us closer to God for His light, warmth, and protection. 

  The other side of that coin is though we may have fewer questions about God’s existence, we make up for it with questions about His judgment. We question His goodness, His timing, His fairness, His concern for us when we or our loved ones are suffering terrible afflictions and hardships. Like the Deists of old, we may be tempted to believe in a God who exists, yet cares nothing for His creation and creatures. But the Bible does not paint a picture of a God who is out of touch with His children. 

  Patience is hard! We want to be well and we want to be well right now. It is difficult for us to understand why the God that we know exists does not come quickly to our rescue when we are suffering. 

  While God doesn’t always give us immediate relief, He does give us comfort, compassion, hope, and love, and such things often must suffice on this side of heaven. 

  We must trust God’s perspective, His goodness, His faithfulness, His timing. That is the essence of faith, and it is what keeps us going when all else fails. 

  Prayer: Dear Lord, we know You are there, but sometimes we become skeptical that You are really listening and ask “Where are You, God?” Please help us hear Your voice and sense Your presence. Amen.