When God Feels Far Away
All of us at one time or another have felt distant from God. There are circumstances in our lives that are deeply trying to our souls. Those hard external trials can lead to internal sadness and even despair. This spiritual darkness is not uncommon, and can be overcome, as we shall see in Psalm 43.
The psalmist cries out to God in his time of trouble, asking God for vindication and deliverance (43:1). His sadness is great and he is in mourning over his circumstances (43:2). He has been troubled by the wicked and their lies (43:1). To make matters worse, he is confused, and feels abandoned by God in his trial (43:2). Brethren, when you are down and confused, cry out to God in your trials knowing that he hears your prayers and cares about you (1Peter 5:6-7).
Even in the midst of dark times, the psalmist’s faith remains strong. He prays for God to send His light and truth (43:3). The Holy Spirit (light) and the word of God (truth) are the solution for coming out of dark times. They focus the psalmist’s attention away from his circumstances and unto God Himself (43:4). Look at the psalmist. Figuratively, he is getting closer and closer to God. They bring him to Mt Zion (“your holy hill”), and move to the temple (“your dwelling place”), then the altar of God, and finally to God Himself (43:3-4). His attention is directed away from his circumstances and unto God Himself (43:4).
The psalmist ends asking himself why he is in despair and deeply troubled when God is his hope (43:5)? Brethren, have confidence that God sees your plight and wait on Him. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you (James 4:8).