Have you ever felt like God is nowhere to be found? Maybe you’re going through a tough time, and it seems like your prayers are hitting the ceiling. You’re not alone. Many of us have experienced moments when it feels like God is distant. But what if I told you that these moments can transform into powerful experiences of God’s presence? Let’s explore how we can move from feeling abandoned to recognizing that God is now here.
In our recent sermon, we delved into the Psalms, where we find raw, honest expressions of despair. Psalm 13, for instance, begins with David crying out, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?” It’s a sentiment many of us can relate to. Yet, within these same Psalms, we also find a shift—a “nevertheless” moment where the psalmist moves from despair to hope. This shift is crucial for our spiritual journey.
The Power of “Nevertheless”
The main point of the sermon is the transformative power of the word “nevertheless.” This word signifies a turning point, a moment when we choose to trust in God’s presence despite our circumstances. Jesus Himself exemplified this in the Garden of Gethsemane. Facing immense agony, He prayed, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).
So, how do we experience this “nevertheless” moment in our own lives? Here are some practical steps:
1. Build a Strong Foundation: Just like the parable of the house built on the rock, we need to establish a solid foundation of faith before the storms hit. This means regular prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers.
2. Remember God’s Faithfulness: Reflect on past experiences where God has shown His faithfulness. Psalm 13 transitions from despair to trust with the words, “But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation” (Psalm 13:5).
3. Ask Yourself, “Where Else Can I Go?”: In John 6:68, Peter responds to Jesus’ challenging teachings by saying, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” When we feel abandoned, we must remind ourselves that only God offers true hope and salvation.
4. Focus on God’s Love: Instead of interpreting God’s love through our circumstances, we should interpret our circumstances through God’s love. Psalm 31:7 says, “I will rejoice and be glad in your steadfast love, because you have seen my affliction; you have known the distress of my soul.”
5. Commit to Trusting God: Make a deliberate choice to trust God, even when it’s hard. Psalm 31:5, quoted by Jesus on the cross, says, “Into your hands I commit my spirit.”
6. Engage in Worship: Worship shifts our focus from our problems to God’s greatness. Psalm 22, which begins with “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” ends with a declaration of praise.
Taking the Next Step
So, what will you do this week to move from “God is nowhere” to “God is now here”? Will you build a stronger foundation of faith? Will you take time to remember God’s past faithfulness? Will you commit to trusting Him, even when it’s tough?
Remember, the point is to experience God’s presence in every circumstance. Without taking these steps, you might miss out on the peace and hope that God wants to give you.
A Prayer for You
Heavenly Father, we come to You in our moments of despair, seeking Your presence. Help us to build a strong foundation of faith, to remember Your faithfulness, and to trust in Your steadfast love. Guide us to our “nevertheless” moments, where we can move from feeling abandoned to recognizing that You are now here with us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.