Monday, April 09, 2018

When God Seems Far Away (Psalm 10:1-7)


Today's scripture: Psalm 10:1-7

Sometimes, I watch the news or read the headlines, and it seems like the bad guys are winning … a lot.

The writer of this psalm described our world really, really well. It’s full of people who are prospering and prideful. Even more, countless deny the existence of the one true God.

Deceit. Cursing. Renouncing the Lord. Sound familiar?

It’s almost painful when it seems like those of us who follow Jesus are losing—jobs, health, relationships—when the “wicked” are thriving. And we cry the words of the psalmist, "Why do You stand afar off, O LORD?”

I’ve asked the same question. Days when I drag myself from bed because the pain is so intense. Days when politicians are caught in lies—but “spin” their way out. Days when people die in catastrophic natural events while celebrities talk of their triple-digit car purchase.

The psalmist continues, “Why do You hide in times of trouble?”

Yes, sometimes it seems like God is far away, hiding in times of trouble. Sometimes it feels like the enemy is indeed winning. And it’s really hard.

During these times, my hope comes from a favorite verse. I pray as you face your own enemy, these words will give you hope too:
 "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." (NASB, John 16:33)
Our enemies may be winning a battle or two, but our Lord Jesus Christ has already won the war!

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