As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God? My tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me continually, “Where is your God?”  Psalm 42:1-3

The Psalmist gives us such a powerful image of our need for God.  This is not a “Sunday school” answer, rather a deep, internal need for the Living God – and then the Psalmist admits his pain – he does not feel God’s presence during a difficult time. 

If you have ever been there (and who among us hasn’t?), it is a deeply painful existence.  It is hard to go through trials and tribulations without feeling God’s presence, or feeling like your prayers have no answer.  Sometimes it even feels like God is not listening or your prayers are useless.  No amount of clever preaching or teaching can lift this feeling.  However, I can turn back to the Word as the Psalmist continues:

These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: how I went with the throng, and led them in procession to the house of God, with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival. Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God (v4-6).

If you are going through one of these times, know you are not alone. 

Peace,

Pastor Bill