By Kelli Artherton
As you know, our family has moved over to the Joplin area. While we are waiting on our church to open in the Joplin area, we decided to visit Hope City church. Last Sunday’s message was really relevant to what I feel a lot of us might face sometimes in our life.
Have you ever faced a struggle in your life that has you questioning the presence of God? Do you ever get frustrated at God and ask why isn’t he answering my prayers? Yes! I sure have. Sometimes I have trouble waiting while in the middle of a storm.
We put in the prayers and expect an answer immediately. So when we don’t get the answer we hope for or no answer at all, we think God isn’t listening to us. We all seem to ask for things to get better in some way, shape or form, but maybe we need to define what better truly is.
1. Difficulties don’t equal Gods Absence. They should invite Gods presence. The presence of the battle doesn’t mean the absence of God in the war.
2. Lack of instant response doesn’t mean Gods not responding. Perseverance prepares us for his response. Let God do what He needs to do. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete. Don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do it’s work so you may become stronger in faith.
3. Depending on God doesn’t lead to disappointment. Depending on God leads to deepened relationships.
Just remember God is always trying to grow our faith in Him. In the midst of your trial, God is walking right beside you. He will never leave your side.
When God seems distant, we must call to Him and trust in His unfailing love.