WHEN YOU CRY OUT

When you are in the throes of physical pain or under the weight of some unbearable hardship, desperate pleas for relief can appear to fall on deaf ears or even worse ... ignored. 

Yet the Bible assures us that we have a loving Father who welcomes your prayer ... Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

Even the most devoted followers of Christ may feel abandoned if their cries for help go unanswered. The human mind fumbles for an explanation, desperately rehearsing everything that led up to the painful situation. But ... answers are often 'on hold' until God's will is accomplished.

Scripture records several episodes of those who cried out to the Lord in a time of need and (at least for a while) were met with silence. 

We read that Job suffered tremendous loss and in his anguish felt as if His God were nowhere to be found ... If I go to the east, He is not there; if I go to the west, I do not find Him. When he is at work in the north, I do not see Him; when he turns to the south, I catch no glimpse of Him. (Job 23:8-9) 

David also struggled with God not responding to his cries ... Why, Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? (Psalm 10:1,13:1) 

Jesus Himself understood our not wanting to experience pain and suffering. Just before His arrest, He prayed to His Father ... If it is possible, may this cup be taken from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will. (Matthew 26:39) 

Then on Calvary's cross, He felt the abandonment ... My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? (Matthew 27:46)

In all of these cases, 'the end justified the means'. Victories were won and the Lord's divine purpose was accomplished.

When you cry out 'God help me', He never fails to respond. It may not be according to your schedule or in the manner you anticipate, but it will always be for your ultimate good and His glory. 

Trust Him.