“I will never leave you nor forsake you…” ~ Hebrews 13:5 (NKJV)

At various times in our lives, we go through difficulties that stretch us, grow us, and shape us for Kingdom purposes. Whether it’s because of poor choices we’ve made or circumstances beyond our control, financial stress, broken relationships, sickness, loss, addictions, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other challenges can touch our lives and leave us wondering “Where is God?”.

I have exciting news for you today: God is always where-ever you are. His Word says that even if we go into the depths of hell, He is there. No matter how “good” or “bad” our situation is, God is right beside us.

HE NEVER LEAVES US! NEVER!!

So you might ask this question: “If God never leaves me, why do I feel so alone?” I’m glad you asked. In the midst of difficult times, “fiery darts” are hurled at God’s children. Our thought process changes because the enemy uses fear, failure, anxiety, depression, oppression, and loneliness to make us feel like no one else understands our situation or struggle. We, then, begin to isolate ourselves from others, and even God.

Check yourself: Are you spending time in God’s Word? Are you listening to music that ushers you into the presence of God? Are you praising Him? Are you praying? If so, how are you praying? Are you praying for God to simply answer your request or are you praying for His best to be done in your life?

Many times, we treat God like McDonald’s drive-in. We pull up when we’re hungry, speak loudly into the speaker, place our order, then drive up to the next window to pick it up. But when we “get to the window” to pick up our order and find that the “order” isn’t exactly the way we wanted it, we get angry, blame God for not listening, and go “do our own thing” because “God doesn’t hear our prayer”.

Friend, be encouraged today: God is always with you and always hears your prayers. He is not a feeling, He’s a reality. Sometimes, though, we have to walk THROUGH difficulties in order to grow and mature into what HIS BEST is for our lives. If you’re going through a difficult time right now, draw closer to Him and find strength, courage, peace, and forgiveness. Learn to trust Him; and when you come out “on the other side” of this trial, you’ll be a better Christian, better person, better parent, better friend, and better servant!