“We need never shout across the spaces to an absent God. He is nearer than our own soul, closer than our most secret thoughts.” A.W. Tozer.
Have you ever felt like you needed to shout to get God’s attention? As if somehow He wasn’t aware of your need? As if He was overlooking you in His vast ocean of creation? I certainly have.
I recently found an old prayer journal from 2016. My January 12th entry was nothing more than an angry and desperate question that filled the entire page in an effort to shout at God to get His attention.
“WHERE ARE YOU?!”
My eyes filled with tears when I read those angry words. Because years later, I see clearly now where He was. He was nearer than my own soul, closer than my most secret thoughts. He knew what I did not. He was long-suffering where I had run out of hope. He was in the midst of calming a storm where I had declared a wasteland. He was building a new foundation, but I wanted the house.
God is not absent. He’s closer than your very soul. He’s right there in the midst of your trial—right now. He’s at work for your good and His glory. He’s doing things you can’t currently see, but someday you will see with great clarity. It may not be this side of heaven—but praise the Lord!—our days are not confined to those lived on this earth! We ‘will’ see!
We need not demand an answer to our desperate shouts of, “Where are you?!” He is Emmanuel. He is with us. He is with you. Whatever trial or pain you’re facing today—invite Jesus into it.
Maybe you have a sick child and you’re fighting a losing battle with fear.
Maybe you’re anxious over a difficult conversation that you need to have.
Maybe you have just lost someone you love and your heart is in a desperate place of grief.
Maybe you’re looking around your home with total overwhelm at all you need to do and feel as if you’re failing at being a wife and mother.
Maybe your husband just lost his job and you’re not sure how you’re going to feed your family.
Whatever your circumstance—God is nearer than your own soul. He sees you. He loves you. He’s working through your trial. And He’s a good, good father. Draw near to Him.
