God Didn't Leave, So Where Did You Go

The verse for this message comes from James 4:8: “Come near to God and He will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

We assume God turned away from us. We assume God doesn’t love us anymore. We ask, “God, why? Why are You putting me through this?”   And you sit there, waiting on an answer. 

God didn’t just drop you in the mud for no reason. Sometimes it takes a little while to understand the reason. But listen: you can’t give up on God while you’re stuck in the mud and just wait for it to dry. 

You may see voids left by broken relationships, family issues—Amen—self-doubt, even a lack of faith. You may see scars, bumps, and bruises. Whatever it is, the Lord is shining His light on that spot for a reason. He’s saying, “Don’t ignore these things, because they’re part of your growth and your journey toward Jesus.” You are being called to Jesus, and He is showing you the truth in your life—sometimes through pain, brokenness, and sin.

Consolation — comfort, encouragement, or relief given by God or through others to those who are grieving, suffering, or discouraged

Desolation -- transcends mere physical devastation, capturing profound spiritual and emotional implications for individuals and communities alike

Remember this passage from Psalm 23: 4 Even though I walk through the [c]valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.