WHERE ARE YOU, GOD?
But tormented by thirst, they continued to argue with Moses. “Why did you bring us out of Egypt? Are you trying to kill us, our children, and our livestock with thirst?”
Exodus 17:3 (NLT)
Walking with God is not easy in a fallen and broken world. But deep down, many of us still expect that if we are His children and if we do the right things, like go to church, read our Bibles, pray, live a good, moral life, then God promises to bless us in the ways we imagine. Doesn’t God promise to bless His children? Even Jesus said He came to give us an abundant life. So, when trials come, when disappointments stack up, and pain lingers, we begin to wonder. Where are You, God? Why are You allowing this? Some pastors even preach a false prosperity gospel that if we just have enough faith, God will grant us health and wealth. False, but it sure sounds nice. Sure, we know things are going to be hard in this life, but not this hard. Not this disappointing. Not this painful. This is when the enemy whispers in our ear, The Lord has abandoned you.
The Israelites were tormented by thirst. When we are in pain, whether emotional, physical, financial or whatever, we have choices. We can pour our heart out to the Lord and ask Him to provide for us and give us guidance and peace, or we can complain and accuse God of not caring. Don’t fall for the lies of the enemy and question God’s goodness and His love for you. Can you hear the difference between, Are You trying to kill me? and Lord, I’m hurting, confused, and I desperately need You?
One is doubt and complaint. The other is trust and surrender.
Jesus didn’t hide the truth from us. He said, “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world”
John 16:33 (NLT)
He never promised an easy life, but He promised His victorious presence in every trial. The abundant life is walking with Him, even in the desert. God’s goal is not to spoil us with comfort but to shape us into Christlikeness. Not pampered children, but faithful disciples. Soldiers in His army, strengthened by His grace.
APPLICATION: Resist the temptation to question God’s character or His love. Remember the cross. He has already proven His heart for you. Don’t accuse Him, pour out your heart to Him. You will find Him faithful.
PRAYER: Lord, please help me in the trials I’m facing today. I put my trust in You.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?