Ichthus Ministries Daily Devotions — Here for Us

Here for Us

And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him.

— Hebrews 11:6

Probably most people, at one time or another, have asked, "Where is God?" or "Does He care?"

Amazingly, both believers and non-believers ask this question, with some differences, of course.

For instance, a believer may not understand the Lord's will or timetable, but he believes the Lord cares. Said another way, his question might sound something like this: "Why hasn't the Lord revealed Himself in a way that I am able to understand?"

In contrast, when a non-believer asks these questions, he may be saying there is no God, and if there is, knowing Him would be impossible. Another way of showing his question might be this: "Why doesn't God make Himself known to me by proving it in a way that's obvious?"

All in all, the difference between the two is this: in tough situations the believer accepts God's wisdom and control. His prayer is for patience, and to say as Jesus said, "Not My will, but Yours, be done" (Luke 22:42b). On the other hand, the non-believer challenges God, neglecting to believe in Him unless he has irrefutable proof.

To make this practical, turn to the Gospels and take a look at two stories from Jesus' life. The first is when He is with His disciples on the storm-tossed Sea of Galilee. In frustration, fear, and with a shaky faith, they come to Jesus saying something like this: "Lord, if You cared about us, You'd do something about this storm." That's when Jesus stood up and silenced both wind and wave with a word. At the same time, He rebuked His disciples for their lack of belief (see Mark 4:35-39).

A second instance of someone asking about Jesus' concern comes from Golgotha. There, one of the malefactors turned to the dying Savior and said, "If You really are the Christ (something the criminal doubted) then prove it by saving Yourself and us" (see Luke 23:39-43). This man demanded a proof from God, unaware of the forgiveness God was offering. Scripture is silent concerning his outcome.

I'll leave you with a little story that may help show how God works in our lives.

It begins with a man whose barn had been struck by lightning and was burning. While the fire was being fought, the farmer called his insurance agent. When he got no answer, he expressed his worry and frustration loudly enough for others to hear. He then blurted out sharply, "Where is that insurance man when you need him!?"

At that moment, a volunteer fireman shouted down from a ladder: "I'm here, putting out your fire!"

Just like the Lord—acting on our behalf, working behind the scenes, and always doing the best for us.

Always.

Heavenly Father, when questions arise and I'm searching for answers, give me the faith to know that You exist and are always here for us. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.

Rev. Dr. Ken Klaus

Reflection Questions:

1. Are there questions you have concerning God and faith that you're hesitant to mention to others?

2. Do you recall when you first thought seriously about the reality of God's existence?

3. How do you respond when someone tells you they don't believe in God?

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).
Are there questions you have concerning God and faith that you're hesitant to mention to others?