When God Seems Gone 

In times of struggle, many individuals find themselves grappling with the feeling that God is distant. Inspired by the poignant reflections found in 'When God Seems Gone' by Adam Mabry, this blog post explores the importance of discussing these emotions as an essential part of one’s faith journey.

The Journey Behind the Book

The inspiration for 'When God Seems Gone' came from a challenging personal experience. For over a decade, Adam Mabry and his family have faced a long-term illness that has deeply affected them all. While their faith remains intact on a theological level—having grappled with questions about God’s sovereignty and love—they often find the day-to-day reality of their struggles feeling quite different. There are moments when experiencing God's closeness seems just out of reach, which leads to pain and confusion.

In today’s world, particularly among the university students they minister to, the struggle with faith and feelings is increasingly pronounced. Many have been taught to prioritize emotional experiences, leading to the essential question: 'What do we do when God feels absent, even if we know intellectually that He is always present?'

Embracing Our Questions

Many individuals feel guilty about questioning their faith or even God Himself. However, Adam believes that questioning is an essential part of a healthy relationship with God. Throughout history, believers have wrestled with their doubts and struggles. It’s okay to ask, “God, where are You?” Embracing these questions allows one to actively seek Him rather than retreating during tough times. Just like any meaningful relationship, the connection with God evolves over time, and He may relate to individuals differently as they grow, which can sometimes feel unsettling.

The Importance of Lament

A prominent theme in the book is the critical role of lament. The author highlights how worship music often focuses on joy, featuring upbeat melodies that may overshadow the importance of expressing sadness. As a musician, they have observed that many worship songs are written in major keys, celebrating the positives, but there is also a vital need for lamentation.

The Bible is rich with lamentation; in fact, an entire book is dedicated to it—Lamentations! The Psalms, often called the songbook of the Bible, include many passages that express deep sorrow and struggle. Creating space for lamentation provides the language needed to convey pain, confusion, and heartache to God, and it’s a crucial step in the healing process.

Finding Comfort in the Journey

If you have ever felt that God seems silent, you should know you are not alone. It’s okay to grieve, to feel confused, and to ask hard questions. Adam encourages individuals to lean into those feelings, bringing them before God and openly sharing their struggles, doubts, and fears. Although it may not always feel comfortable, it is often in those vulnerable moments that deeper intimacy with God can be found.

I want to encourage you to embrace the journey of faith with all its ups and downs. Even during the most challenging times, God is present, listening to your cries. Navigating doubts and not shying away from lamentation can ultimately enrich your relationship with God.

This journey allows for growth, understanding, and a deeper connection with God. Embrace your path, knowing you can find comfort and companionship in your struggles.

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This post aims to resonate with anyone facing similar challenges and encourages them on their journey. For those who have faced similar struggles or have questions of their own, they are invited to share their thoughts - simply contact us, we would love to help.