Published on March 17, 2024, 1:02 am

Image source: Fox News

It’s not uncommon for faithful believers to face moments of despair and questioning in their lives, especially when dealing with instances of extreme suffering and heartbreak. During such moments, one might question the existence of God or assume the Almighty is uncaring or absent.

In this whirlpool of inner turmoil, one pertinent query that pops up is: “God, where are You?” At times, it seems as though our cries fall on deaf ears and we feel abandoned and forsaken. This feeling often arises from not observing visible evidence of God intervening in our troubles.

Jesus christ once declared in John 16:33, “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” The trouble that Jesus references here resonates with anyone who has harbored deep wounds caused by life’s tribulations. Understandably they might struggle to accept the remaining portion implying His triumph over worldly sufferings.

Navigating through such challenging circumstances, let us grasp three pivotal truths:

1. When overwhelmed by fear and facing a seeming loss of control over events unfolding around us, there is always something within everyone’s reach – faith. Our external predicament does not wholly render us powerless. By recalling Psalm 91:2 —“I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress…'”, we reaffirm our trust in God who provides comfort amidst chaos.

2. Just because we fail to perceive divine intercession at a particular instant doesn’t mean it isn’t happening or won’t manifest eventually. We live within two planes of realities – our tangible environment encompassing earthly misery which could be threatening to engulf us, coupled with an unseen spiritual realm at play where divine functions operate persistently.

Remember – your view does not constitute the complete reality around you even if you don’t see God working right now amidst crushing circumstances. As followers of a God who constantly strives for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28), we must stand reassured.

3. Although humans are emotional beings, feelings should help interpret life experiences but not dictate how we navigate life. While it’s normal to feel a gamut of emotions like fear, anger, skepticism, and uncertainty, it doesn’t mean we have to cede control to them.

As you wrestle with your challenges tonight and prepare to slumber, let your mind be flooded with these truths – Jesus has overcome the world and he is there as your divine protector in every journey you embark on.

These excerpts are from Lysa TerKeurst’s book “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart: 50 Devotions for Sleeping Well in a World Full of Worry,” providing wisdom as per the Christian worldview. As seasoned author and founder of Proverbs 31 ministries, Lysa TerKeurst’s focus remains centered around uplifting those facing adversity while instilling trust in real news drawn from biblical scriptures.