What do I do when God doesn't show up?
Have you ever been through something where you found yourself asking “God, where were you?” It can be really disheartening and lonely to think that God doesn’t show up.
In John 11, Mary & Martha sent word to Jesus to come heal their brother Lazarus. When he finally arrived, Lazarus was already dead and buried. They thought the story was over, and were disappointed that Jesus didn't show up when they needed him. verse 32-“If you had been here, my brother would not have died!” When he saw them weeping, it says that he was “deeply moved” and then we see “Jesus wept”. After this, he performed a miracle, and resurrected Lazarus for all to see.
2 things this story teaches us…
1) God mourns with us because he cares so deeply for us, and is moved by our emotion.
2) When we are at our end, he is at the beginning, and is set up for miracles.
Today, you might still be waiting for that miracle, but in the meantime, remember that Jesus weeps with you. He cares for you, and He promises to never leave you.
So, what do we do when we feel like God is not showing up?
Read stories like the one above in the bible. Look for God’s character in the story. When it seemed like God was nowhere to be found, what happened next?
Pray. We may have certain expectations of God, but the truth is, he is not a genie. He is the creator of the universe. The only un-created being. He knows infinitely more than we ever could. It’s possible there is more to the story than we can comprehend. Ask God for wisdom and peace as you navigate. The bible reminds us that when we ask him for wisdom, he will give it to us (James 1:5). This doesn’t mean that everything will work out like we want it to, but continually going to God will remind us who is in control.
Control the controllables: There is much that is out of our control, but there is one thing we can control in any situation. Our response. When your thoughts feel out of control, take some deep breaths, go for a walk, or take a warm shower or bath. These physical actions will help bring the mind back to the present moment, and help you calm your nervous system. Once here, you can examine your thoughts. Are they actually true? What are your thoughts leading you to feel and do? Is it helpful? If not, you can take control. Remind yourself of what IS true.
Remember, God is for you. He promises never to leave you. You may be going through a valley, but he is walking through it with you. You are never alone.