Where Is God?

Some days are harder than others. Some days Jesus seems so far away. Everyday life intrudes on faith and makes it seem impossible to draw near to God. Some are so busy with jobs and careers they cannot seem to find a few moments with the Lord. It’s not that they do not want  to be with Him, it is just that they cannot find the time. Others have time but have lost the desire. What’s happening and how can it be fixed?

Let’s keep in mind that God is not far from us. The Lord is near to all who call on him in truth, writes the psalmist (Psalm 145:18). He is a God that is near at hand (Jeremiah 23:23-24). So even on days when the world crashes through, God is not far. It may seem like he is far away but it’s really the busyness of the day that clouds our view.

Job thought God had forsaken him. His entire world crashed down upon him in a matter of hours. He lost his business, his belongings and even his children. Job was struggling. He asked, “Why did I not die at birth, come out from the womb and expire?” He complained more, “I am not at ease, nor am I quiet; I have no rest but trouble comes” (Job 3:11, 26). For Job, the man of patience, life had descended into swirling vat of pain and sorry.

What Job did not realize, and what we forget, is that God was never far. The Almighty was watching every move Satan made against Job. He heard every cry, every moan, from Job’s mouth. The Lord knew the grand outcome, he knew Job was growing and knew that he would remain faithful. The Lord knew Job’s struggles were a necessary part of his own divine plan. But still, Job was struggling.

It is important for us to see the Job story as a lesson for us. Just as Job did not know what was ahead, just as the days looked perpetually dark, God was near. Although Job, and we, think we are alone, we are not. Struggles are a part of the way of all men. For the faithful however, God is close at hand. But where  is he? How do we find him?

Eliphaz, a friend of Job’s, was roundly rebuked by God for his advice he gave Job during his struggles. But there was one thing Eliphaz said that was wise. In the midst of Job’ s struggles, Eliphaz said this: “As for  me, I would seek God, and to God would I commit my cause” (Job 5:8). This is a good first step in rediscovering the Lord of our heart. Pray, pray, pray. Don’t stop praying until you find that sweet spot before the Lord. Place your fears and your weaknesses before  him (1 Peter 5:7) and call on him for help.

When a child is born, mom and dad will carefully inspect every inch of their newborn. They will count fingers and toes, look for birthmarks and take note of every characteristic of the precious infant. God does likewise. But in his all-knowing power he even counts the hairs of our head (Matthew 10:30; Luke 12:7). You are loved beyond belief! The Father and Son want to be near and desire to be your friend. Where is he? He is near, only a prayer away.

2 comments On Where Is God?

  • Colin Lambert

    Hi Bryant,

    I heard one of my heroes and some say heretic that “we get as much of God as we want.” So much in such a short statement. Then “the Lord is a rewarder of those that diligently seek Him.”

    I can only say that I found out what John said is so true. The thing is I used to make all these excuses to God as to my business. I suppose it is a bit like tithing though. Many say they can’t afford it, but I have found I can’t afford not to. Not seek God? I can’t afford not to, but I can decide not to.

    I’m so glad that rejection pushed me into the presence of God and the benefits that I’ve found through seeking Him. As an old man I don’t need as much sleep so when I wake up I get up and seek Him. The thing is as a young man sleep was so sweet. Then again they that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.

    God bless you mate. I loved study. And go aussies in the rugby although I follow arial ping pong.

    Colin Lambert

    • I find as I age that the seeking of God becomes more and more a vital part of my life. I want to know him, to be close to him and be completely enveloped in His glory.

      May God graciously reward you for your desire for him. Rugby is not well known here but clearly a tough sport.

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