God Is Always There

What can we say in times like these to reassure those whose hearts tremble with fear and uncertainty? Is God still on His throne? Is His world still turning on the axis of His sovereignty? Is His plan for man still heading steadily toward the ultimate consummation of His eternal purpose? Has the omnipotent Creator and Ruler of this universe been deposed by the cruel and heartless acts of His evil and sinful creatures?

If He is still there, how could He allow evil to run so rampant  in our world today?  I will freely admit that the answer to this perennial and perplexing question does not come easily. Especially for those who suffer terrible and traumatic loss. But I do know God has the answer. In fact, He has written a whole book about the matter. Through the ages He has again and again given those who need it most grace and faith to understand and accept His will for their lives; no matter how perplexing and painful it may be. In all this we must never forget that the love and mercy of God can be seen even in a time of great trouble.

Such an answer is not readily understood by those who have rejected God and His Son Jesus Christ. This was highlighted in the response given by a Christian who was asked such a question by a journalist after a terrible disaster. He challenged the reporter with words to this effect: "Why do you ask such a question? Do you believe in God? Are you obeying and following Him? Are you willing to accept His will for your life?" It goes without saying that the journalist quickly changed the subject.

It is not only the precious promises of God found in His Holy Word that persuade us He will stand by those who trust Him. "[It is of] the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. [They are] new every morning: great [is] thy faithfulness." (Lam. 3:22- 23) But we simple Christians know that God is present in all life's experiences. We have experienced the mighty power of His arm In the good times and the bad. The frailty of our fragile mortal frame has drawn us to faith in Him again and again. We have felt the tender touch of His helping hand all along the path of life. We have known the soft sweetness of His precious presence in the lonely hours of the night watch. We have known the healing help that only He can bring in the hour of our harm and hurt. In all of this we have come to know that GOD IS ALWAYS THERE.