Where Is God???

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."  (NIV)  Deuteronomy 31:8

It's hard to believe that it has been 15 years since the horrific events of 9/11.  I am sure each one of us remembers, in great detail, exactly where we were and what was rushing through our minds when the events unfolded throughout the day.  The horror, the fear, the anger, the sense of urgency, the need to be with our loved ones - to touch them, to hold them, to tell them we love them.  The myriad of emotions was overwhelming for all of us.  Then there was the waiting when we couldn't reach those we love.  I remember my mom was travelling (no surprise there) and she was in Las Vegas.  I couldn't wait to hear her voice and get her home.

The country reacted in so many different ways that day.  The greatest response was people going to church.  Churches saw a 47% increase in attendees the following Sunday.  Prayer meetings were happening in every town.  I find it amazing that when things are in turmoil, the focus turns to faith.  People gathering together to worship can be a powerful thing!!

Many people, Christians and non-Christians alike, asked the question, "Where was God?"!  Where was He when the planes struck the towers?  Where was He when the plane hit the Pentagon?  Where was He when the plane went down over a Pennsylvania field?  Where was God?  Aren't these the same questions we ask when things go array in our lives - when traumatic events occur.  Where is God when my health deteriorates?  Where is God when a loved one passes (especially a child)?  Where is God when my marriage falls apart?  Where is God?

He was right next to thousands of people on September 11th, 2001.  He was there for the ones who miraculously survived.  He was also there for those who didn't, walking them to His heavenly home.  He was there for those who cried out to Him - for the first time in their lives - asking for forgiveness, and He granted it.  He was there to give strength to the responders who didn't think they had any strength left.  He was there for all the families to give courage in the face of darkness and hope in the days to come.  He was there!!  We even saw that oh so strongly in the picture above.

I have good news for you as well - He is also right there for you.  He is providing you miracles every day, continuing to bring you out of difficult health situations.  He is also there for those whose time it is to join Him in his heavenly home.  He is there to give strength and courage when we don't think we have any left.  He is there to provide us peace and even joy.  Yes, JOY when things are tough.  JOY when life is hard.  JOY when we hurt.  We have the JOY and PEACE that others can't comprehend because we know we have a God that is right beside us, loving us each and every moment of the day.

The next time you ask the question, "Where is God?", know that He is with you.  He is before you, beside, you and behind you, guiding and supporting you with each breath you take.  The next time someone asks you that question - let them know your story, let them hear your faith, share with them your hope, your joy, your love and your peace.  For God is right there with us all.  Blessings and peace to you all.

"Heavenly Father, please help us to be reminded that you are always with us, regardless of the situation.   Keep your Word safely in our hearts so that we can be reminded in a moment's notice of your grace and love.  When times get tough and discouraging, and we know that they will, please let our thoughts and words turn to you, and give us exactly what we need to continue on our earthly journey."