When I first moved to New York City some ten years ago, whenever I was feeling lost or alone, I would always go take a walk by the river. And as the gentle breeze would kiss my cheek, I would always envision that as a touch from God, giving me comfort and guidance that everything is going to be okay.
Fast forward to yesterday. Same river. Same girl, only slightly older, seeking guidance, only this time – the wind was gale force gusting the entire time. To the point that my hat flew off four different times.
This memory didn’t hit me until I was nearly home, feeling absolutely exhausted from battling the wind for an hour. And that’s when I realized: if God was giving me a kiss on the cheek when I felt lonely back then, what is He trying to communicate now, with His incessant hurricane gusts?
And that’s when I got to thinking about the current state of this world. For the past seven months now, it’s as though the entire world has been in a free fall. I mean, think about it. Starting with Australia’s wild fires; to the global pandemic; we’ve been prohibited to go to church; we’ve lost jobs, education opportunities and loved ones; and now a horrific hurricane season; wild fires ravaging California, and our country is politically tearing itself apart at the seams with riots, violence, and unrest.
Taking an inventory is a sobering exercise that makes me question: where is God?
Really. Where is He in all of this? Hasn’t He heard the cries of His children? Can’t He see our suffering? Are our prayers falling on deaf ears?
Later last night, a certain gentleman and I were driving through the streets of Manhattan. And all throughout the city, the NYPD had baracades up, and swaths of cop vans and patrol units stationed at various landmarks: The Met, Times Square, Trump Tower, etc – all in preparation for the outcry of protesters and potential rioters in response to the news from the tragic and heartbreaking Breonna Taylor case.
It felt like a scene out of the apocalypse. Deserted streets, except for flashing cop lights. Meanwhile, my Citizen crime app pinging, notifying us of large groups of protestors blocking the Manhattan Bridge, and overtaking Washington Square Park, and elsewhere.
I thought, is God withdrawing Himself from us?
His children are hurting, and where is He?
I got home and turned to the Bible. Because – not that I was feeling all end-times-y/Revelation now, or anything – but I was curious as to other times when God hid His face from His children.
And what I found shook me to my core. Jeremiah 11:14 states: “Therefore do not pray for this people, or lift up a cry or prayer on their behalf, for I will not listen when they call to me in the time of their trouble.”
You see, Israel had fallen into rampant paganism, idolatry, and polytheism, and so as a result, God was allowing them to experience life with their false idols, and without Him. Zechariah 7:13 – “As I called, and they would not hear, so they called, and I would not hear.”
Could it be that we are the modern day Israel? Has our society’s collective dismissal of God finally caught up with us?
We have created idols in our own time, and we’re seeing it play out to the n’th degree. Politics has become a religion for so many – to the point where we’re raising up Ruth Bader Ginsberg to deity-status. We’ve replaced religious morals and ideals with party platforms, and agendas that are a far cry from biblically influenced.
We’ve made idols of our sexual identity and our gender expression, and worship material possessions, professional athletes and celebrities. We’ve replaced striving to be right with God, with virtue signaling to be right in the eyes of others.
Why is it more socially acceptable to recite the lyrics to “WAP,” than it is to pray in public, or say “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance?
Could it be that God is allowing us to sleep in the bed we’ve made for ourselves?
Could it be that God is allowing His absence to be acutely felt – not just spiritually – but now, thanks to COVID, even physically – so that we may come to learn to actually appreciate it?
I’m asking, because I genuinely desire to know. It feels as though my prayers are a broken record, and each day brings with it a new set of issues and quandaries.
And I’d like to know what you think: what do you make of the current state of the world? Are we the modern day Israel?
Is God withdrawing? Are we needing repentance? Do people really even care, let alone notice?
To close, I want to just offer a prayer – a pleading for God’s presence to be felt. Perhaps, like the hurricane gusts of wind I felt yesterday at the river, God is screaming out to us, and yet we have been refusing to hear? And if that’s the case, I pray our ears be opened and our hearts made receptive to the not-so-subtle whisper of our Father.
I pray for peace in this nation. I pray for healing of the broken, hurting hearts, frustrated with current realities and injustices. And I pray for the leaders of this nation, that they would seek to unite the people of this great nation, and respect all life – from conception to natural death.
“This is what the Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.” Ez 37:5
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366 responses to “Where is God?”
Amen! Thank you for sharing this.
THanks Jazmin, I appreciate you taking the time to read it! praying for our nation and world. Hugs and love xox
My heart cries out with yours. It takes courage to stand for God in our present day. You have shown a maturity in faith many don’t have. God is using you to speak to His people. I am glad you see Him.
thank you Niki, yes – big prayers in my heart tonight for our hurting nation and world. i appreciate your encouraging words. it truly means the world, and i am humbled by your generosity. Hugs and love xox
I think your analogy of world event, and events in the States is spot on, Caralyn. The hype about this judge who sadly passed recently, was very upsetting. and so on, too much to comment about. I pray that you will be safe, and that America will turn back to God.
Thank you so much John, I am humbled by your generous words. Yes – I agree. I will join you in that important prayer!! Hugs and love xox
Couldn’t agree more. God hasn’t left us. He doesn’t leave us. Humanity leaves God, not the other way around. I appreciate your thoughtful and prayerful reflection.
thank you so much Tim, I’m glad it resonated with you. You’re right – He never ever leaves. Hugs and love xox
I am teaching a Sunday school class – socially distanced with masks on, so it is a bit difficult. But what we are studying is Hosea. The last verse of Hosea 5 says something along the lines of “In their misery they will seek God.” But if you read Revelation, as the tribulation gets worse, they curse God even more. We are not in the tribulation yet, but at what point do we stop listening to God? As for the world, we may need to be more friendly to our planet, but we cannot stop the downward spiral, scientifically, ecologically, but also spiritually. Yet, the Christian church is growing in China even with governmental persecution – and many in our government wish to copy their techniques since “they do not have the problems that we have.” Ha. There are strong believers in Africa, facing death each day as the Muslims seem to be hunting them for sport. I only point out China and Africa as places where faith is growing. Maybe we just need to be a bit more miserable. I wish misery on no one, but as times get hard, I spend more time on my knees. Sorry, I usually have a few jokes to tell. Maybe next time. But thank you for making me think – that is one thing in short supply these days, thinking.
thank you so much for sharing that. i will pray for your class. what a powerful POWERFUL verse. wow. you’re absolutely right – we need to turn back to He who created us! looking forward to those jokes 😉 Hugs and love xox
“if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
2 Chronicles 7:14 esv
“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Luke 14:11 esv
that is such encouraging scripture. thank you for sharing! it sounds like we have some repenting to do! Hugs and love xox
If you seek him, you will find him. That I know for sure.
amen amen amen to that!
This passage took on new meaning this moring during my prayer time. I am doing the 40 day fast as I pray for this country, our election, and revival. God’s people need to repent of pride before God hears us and heals our nation. We are idalizing ourselves as we serve ourselves and want to be served instead of having compassion for the plight of others and serving them in love.
Joyce
Oh wow – what a beautiful thing to do to fast for our country!! Praying for you and with you!!
Sobering thoughts Caralyn, I fear you may be right.
thank you so much Veronica! Yes, me too. But I trust in His goodness, and I know that He will always prevail. We may have a cross to carry though, that’s for sure. Hugs and love xox
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thanks for the link up! Hugs and love xox
Great post. Thanks for sharing.
thanks so much JB, i appreciate you taking the time to read it. Hugs and love xox
You are very graciously welcome so much. Thank YOU for taking the time to share. Hugs and Love to YOU.
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God was shown the door by Adam & Eve when they accepted Satan’s argument over God’s words to them. In doing so, they handed Satan the “keys to the kingdom.” It’s been the devil’s playground since. People tend to ask the wrong question; why did God let X happen? He didn’t humanity did.
As I started reading your article, I knew I was going to point you to Jeremiah, but you had already found it. Yes, God withdrew from Israel after about 490 years of disobedience and a multitude of warnings from His prophets. Many were taken to Babylon, a captivity that God said would last 70 years, one year for each 7-year cycle in which one year would be a sabbath for the land; no farming as the land rested.
So you found the right passage to answer your question, but you didn’t read far enough. Jeremiah, Isaiah…all the OT prophets were what I call “Prophets of Babylon,” because they all warned of their impending doom, but they all finished with hope for redemption after the 70 years and eternally. God would punish but not abandon. There’s your comfort.
Is America a modern-day Israel? I say yes after reading two books by Rabbi Jonathon Cahn, a Messianic Jew, a Christian. They are The Harbinger and The Mystery of the Shemitah. I did a 3-part series on them in 2018. The parallels between US history of the last several decades and 9/11 bear an eerie resemblance to Israel’s history leading up to their Babylonian Exile. Part one is at https://jeffreyhking.wordpress.com/2018/11/10/the-harbinger-overview-part-1/ Not nearly as long as both books!
Here’s another comfort for you. Even during God’s withdrawal from Israel, he remained faithful to those who remained faithful to Him. I’m thinking primarily of the OT prophets, especially Daniel who was one of the mightiest prophets of God. God prospered him even as an exile in Babylon.
God has not forgotten His faithful. He will always listen for repentance of every single person who turns and forgive. As a country, we’re deep in the weeds and there may be more suffering to be had, but we still have His promise of a victorious eternity!
Thank you so much Jeff for this awesome response. you’re right about that – the precedent was set from day one. Yes – i will definitely have to check out that series – it sounds fascinating. you’re right – there have been so many parallels. it is quite alarming. but you’re right – there is comfort to find in God’s goodness and faithfulness, that I can personally attest to!!! you’re right on the money with that one. as always, thank you for blessing me with this marvelous food for thought. have a beautiful weekend, and hugs to you and your girls. Hope Julie enjoyed a working from home week! 🙂
I’m glad you found this useful. Reading those books really changed my perspective on the Old Testament along with another great book, Agents of Babylon by Dr. David Jeremiah. It’s in interpretation of the Book of Daniel, especially his prophecies.! Have a great weekend too!
oh danggggg — the book of Daniel has always fascinated me. Agents of Babylon — adding that one too! thank you!!
I did a series on that one too. Here’s a link to one of those that floored me; Daniel prophesied the rise and fall of Alexander the Great, who actually offered a sacrifice to God in the temple in Jerusalem under the direction of the high priest, as recorded by Josephus: https://jeffreyhking.wordpress.com/2018/12/23/daniel-the-ram-and-the-goat-contd/
Have a great weekend! XO
Oh amazing! Thanks Jeff! I look forward to reading that! Hugs and love xox
Just as we attract those things that we put out there to show us wisdom personally, we also as a generation need to see and learn wisdom by attracting those things. It isn’t until we find a hole in our lives that we want to fill it. Realize our loss that we want to find meaning.
There is much reaction simply because we have had enough of the hole’s and meaningless mouthing’s from those that affect us the most, and our mirrors are reflecting that back into the world…to react a little more.
Just release those reactions, understand its wisdom and be that young lady by the river and feel the wind in your hair dear lady. Understand the fear you hold and it will set you free…from it all 😀 ❤️ 🙏🏼 🦋
Thanks so much Mark for sharing this powerful food for thought. you’re right about that — we need to find, recognize and desire to fill that hole. that’s for sure. amen to that – free from it all! isn’t that the truth! so glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
I do believe we are very much like Israel, and I believe God has decided we can have at it just as He did with Israel. There is so much confusion. People are placing blame on others for their own actions, searching for answers everywhere instead of finding answers in the One that has all the answers. Every time I see a press conference my hope is that someone in leadership will get on their knees and lead the country in prayer. What a platform they have to do such. God has been so patient with us because He loves us so very much. He desires that we come back to Him. He’s waiting. At the same time I believe He is still at work as He always, as He was in Biblical times. As Christians we need to take advantage of these horrific times to bring more people to Christ. Difficult times are when we should step up for God. It is what He wants from us. One of my favorite songs right now is ‘Waymaker’. I love the rendition by the soloist from The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. You can find the video on their Facebook page. Prayers for you. I know you are seeing so much more there in NYC than a lot of the rest of us. Take care and be safe.
Thank you MonteeLou for sharing your heart on this. You’re right – we need reconciliation and this is also a prime opportunity to grow the body of Christ! God is always alive! Hugs and love xox
The first thing our leader did was pray.
that’s a good thing to do!!
understand, God has not turned away from us. God gives us infinite time to find our way back home.
The negative energies are very powerful, they speak into the ears of many and many listen.
God sends the Angels to watch over us, not to mitigate but rather to help us endure.
Another is here to help us. The time is not now. However, the time grows near.
Trust in the Father.
Love always
That is so true Richard. Thank you for sharing your heart on this. You’re right / God sends us Helpers! Hugs and love xox
I believe that God is ever present. He made his promise in his word, “I will never leave you and I will never forsake you.” Since God is the same and he never changes. He can’t leave, rather we have left Him. Throughout the Bible you hear the cry of the Lord saying “return to me.” Joel and Hosea both speak of restoration after a returning to God. So God, has never left. He’s standing right where we left Him. We just have to go back to that place where we left Him.
Thank you Nikki for sharing your heart. Amen – He will never abandon or foresaw us. That’s such a powerful truth to remember. Glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Everyone who doesn’t get what they want thinks god as abandoned them. That’s what the millions killed in the Holocaust thought. Now it could be that there is no god or we only think we know what god wants. Maybe we should stop telling god what to do and take it on ourselves to understand humans and what they are capable of.
“O , what men dare do ! what men may do ! what men daily do , not knowing what they do ! “
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Steven.
Hiya! I truly appreciate that Christians are writing and talking about this time of God disciplining the world. It is a time for those who call themselves Christians to get into the Word, and to live by faith not sight. We can only help our friends and neighbors to turn to God, when they see Him in our lives. Not getting caught in materialism, or politics or deities. False gods and false humility will be shown for what they are. As for me and mine, I need to increase my reliance on Truth. God humbled Israel, and He will humble the world that denies Him.
Thanks so much Eric. You’re right – I think this is a powerful opportunity to draw on our faith to get through. Reliance on truth. Amen. Hugs and love xox
I have been thinking about that a lot lately Eric. My friend has been using the exact same phrase about getting into the Word. For myself I have been looking for the fruits of the spirit. The bible says we will know false prophets by their fruit. I look at Carolyn’s blog and I see all of us coming together. In an increasingly divided world this is one of the great places to come and share with people from so many different faiths and backgrounds.
I think we can only align ourselves as best we can with the principles set out in scripture.
God is just as close as He’s always been,it is man who has chosen to live their life away from Him. “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,saith the Lord,thoughts of peace,and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall you call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me,and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me AND FIND ME, when ye shall search for me with your whole heart”(Jeremiah 29:11-13). God has a wrath that is to be poured out and with the tornadoes,hurricanes,fires,flooding ….we have never lived in a time where ALL this is happening at once! He is showing His hand over the earth and we must turn from the sin that so easily besets us and turn to the only hope found in Christ! He said I will never leave you nor forsake you and it is us who have left serving Him. God Bless You.
Julia
Thanks Julia for sharing your thoughts on this. You’re right – He will never abandon us! Amen – we must turn back to Him! Hugs and love xox
Thank you for the raw honesty in your piece. Know that you and America are in the prayers of those of us who may be half a world away (like I am here in Southeast Asia – Singapore to be precise). We put our trust in Him who holds our future, so despite what appears now in the present, remain steadfast and stay the course “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, 18 as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2 Co 4:17-18)
Thanks friend for this encouraging response. You’re right – we must put our trust in Him and His goodness and those things eternal! Amen! Hugs and love xox
Thank you for that reminder. Joyce
Thanks for sharing. Your words speak true to my heart. I think your post is going to help me remember to stop trying to do everything myself and pray more for help. It’s easy to drift away from the Lord just trying to put food on the table. Many thanks.
Thanks friend. I’m so glad this resonated with you. Amen – there is power in prayer and we definitely have a Helper when we are in need! Hugs and love xox
God is still here, years ago He gave you a kiss on the cheek now its a hurricane because the wirld is in grave danger.
Ive recently been illegally used as a test subject for the covid vaccine in the UK. 1) it almost killed me, sores, parkinsonian muscle loss in my face, turned grey in colour but more serious was the spiritual effects. It was almost as if my connection with God was at risk. I thought nothing of this other than “it must just be me” till tonight when I heard other people who have had the vaccine have experienced a great loss on a spiritual level after being given the vaccine.
At the moment I am reading Samuel 1 from the Old Testament Chapters 6 and 7. It talks about the power of God and the Ark of the Covenant. Reading your blog post tonight seems to relate 100% with what I’ve seen happening in UK and this part of the Bible.
I have no doubt we are in the time of Revelation, the Great Revealing, I also suspect that the human race is evolving and devolving at the same time. Prehaps Covid19 is connected to the evolution of humanity and only those with the strongest connection to God will survive. I cant help thinking about Genesis and how God says that if Adam and Eve eat from the Tree of Knowledge they will become like God.
We need to keep praying, keep true to our faith in this tome of false prophets.
To put this into context. In the book about evolution “Seven Daughters of Eve by the Oxford Professor Brian Sykes” states that the female DNA passed down via Mitochondria is a parasite or bacteria and the changes in DNA can only be negative or neutral. By this logic evolution is actually devolement of a species, which just does not make sense.
I’ve seen the extreme weather in UK and I do feel that it is God warning us that we are at great risk. Years ago He gave you a loving kiss because you were lonely. Now just like any caring parent acting harshly to prevent their child running into a busy road, Gods touch is a bit rougher because the danger is greater.
I will be sending prayers for you across the Atlantic tonight pleaee pray for me in my tent.
Keep strong keep praying hold tight to yiur faith.
Thank you Billie. You’re so right – the world is in grave danger for sure. And oh my gosh I am so sorry to hear that you went through that!!! Oh my gosh that is just awful and my heart. Goes out to you!!!! Hang in there. Know that you are in my prayers. Hugs and love xox
This is such an honest question. If I may answer the question, “Where is God?”, the answer is He is still on His Throne and is still in complete control. However, He has given us free will and the ability to make our own choices. He will not force us to believe in Him or turn to Him.
One verse comes to mind:
2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV) – if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
While we may be powerless to change others and even the whole nation of this modern-day Israel, we have the power to change ourselves. We can only sigh and cry for the evils in our country. This should all help us pray more earnestly, “Thy Kingdom come.”
thank you so much Joshua. you’re so right – He is in complete control, i can put my faith in that, and I do! thanks for that powerful verse! this was really reassuring! Hugs and love xox
You hit the nail on the head. God is turning away from our nation as we have turned away from him. Yes, according to Johnathan Cahn, we are reliving exactly the same fate of ancient Israel to the letter when it fell. Read The Harbinger II and you will be stunned. 9-11 was the first shaking and what have we done in 19 years but openly mocked God and turned a blind eye to him. Saturday noon to 2 p.m. there will be a sacred assembly in Washington, DC a time of prayer and repentance. Google The Return. Pray where you are.
I can only hope that others are as perceptive as you are. Only hope that your readers will take what you have written to heart.
God bless you always. You are precious in God’s eyes and perhaps that is why he has allowed you to see so clearly.
thanks so much Sandman for such kind words 🙂 yes – we need to turn back to God!! and you’re right – we need to pray pray pray! Hugs and love xox
Sadly, we have kicked God out of our culture. God is a gentleman. He will not force Himself on us. He won’t make us. But we will be responsible.
Keep praying. He is still listening. He loves you.
Feeling your observations.
hi Paul, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this! you’re absolutely right – He is still listening, and we definitely need to keep praying! so glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
My sweet friend and sister in Jesus, God is calling us to repentence and purity in the church and mostly calling us to draw close to Him and trust Him. Things are as He said they would be in the end times. We need to be close to Jesus so we are ready to be with Him into eternity. Hang on. God is in control and the enemy is in full swing because his time is short. Stay close to God and rest in His Truth. He has you. He lives you dearly. And as always, love you too. Hugs!XO😄❤
Hi Tonya, my dear friend! i am so moved by this beautiful comment, thank you so much for sharing your heart. you’re so right! He is calling us close to Him. and we need to embrace that, and respond to His call! amen to that – He has us in the palm of His hand! Hugs and love xox
You are His. “Perfect love casts away all fear.” We are just passing through. No worries. XO❤
Amen to that my dear sweet friend. Gotta keep our eyes on Heaven!!
It is our hope. Jesus is our hope.😄❤Yay!!!!😄❤
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Hi Caralyn! After reading your new blog post, all I can say is that this verse says it all… 2 Chronicles 7:14 says, ”If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”🙏
Hi friend! Thank you so much for sharing this powerful powerful verse. it is so comforting. and you’re absolutely right. He is never far, and is always calling us home. Humility is something we need for sure! praying with you! Hugs and love xox
So many good thoughts!!! As a Christian I stake my belief (that God is still with those of us in Christ) on His promise “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” My observation….I believe that as Americans, we are so accustomed (for the most part) to the luxury of ease, comfort, and freedom, that in times like these we may be tempted to think “Where are you God?” I know I personally have thought it plenty of times! And no doubt we DO need repentance. But I wonder if ultimately God wants us to remember his blessings on us are not amounted in our prosperity or comfort as a people or nation. I think God wants us to want him regardless of any of those things. To love the Giver over the gifts. To continue to stand for what is right, to speak of what is right (as you do!!) When the world is spitting on you and persecuting you and trying to force you to conform to their ways. I think of so many of the persecuted Christians in Asia and other areas of the world, willing to die for Jesus. And then I consider 1 Peter 1:6-9 “In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” Thank you again for another thought provoking post. It really led me back to Jesus and His Word. 😄
thank you so much for this awesome comment. so much powerful food for thought here! you’re absolutely right – He will never abandon or forsake us! we can have total and complete faith in that. amen – i pray that we want to want Him!!! very encouraged by your words tonight, thank you. Hugs and love xox
I just appreciate your courage in writing SO MUCH! It is not easy to write openly and honestly, especially when you stand for truth. Big hugs to you and very much praying with you!!
Thank you again!!! 🙂
Amen. You have good insight and wisdom. I do not believe that we have been abandoned; however, we are being tested. God gives us free will, true enough. He also charges us with the responsibility to our brothers. Just as you are “giving testimony” and challenging others in thought. We must continue to follow our believes, share our faith (as you are doing), and invite ours to join us. Some preach with words; others preach with actions. Part of my daily prayers is for Wisdom and insight to share peace and for others to learn peace. Then we can learn to live in peace.
Mary, Queen of Peace, save us all, who have
so much trust in you, from wars, hatred, and
oppression. Make us learn to live in peace,
and educate ourselves for peace, do what is
demanded by justice and respect the rights
of every person, so that peace may be firmly
established. Amen.
thank you so much HJ! I’m so glad this hit home with you. you’re absolutely right – He will never abandon or forsake us, we can be confident of that. i pray that we turn back to the Father, and invite Him back into our culture. Probably wishful thinking, but there is power in prayer!!!! amen – praying with you. Hugs and love xox
[…] Where is God? […]
thanks Tonya for the link up! Hugs and love xox
God is All of This..when we improve the world will approve.
Thank you Jumma for your thoughts on this. I agree! Hugs and love xox
Great thought-provoking post. I think about the state of our country and world a lot. I think Romans 1 reveals the dreadful situation America is in. You are very right that the full-on “pro-choice” mentality has consequences; added to this is the open indulgence and applause of sin. Indeed, sad times we are living in.
Thank you Geno for sharing your thoughts on this. I will have to look up Romans 1! and I agree – i’m afraid we are seeing the consequences of our departure from Christian morality. Hugs and love xox
He lives in You! Stay strong in faith, keep praying, keep believing and continue to engage others in the conversation just like you do every week! May His peace overwhelm you with comfort.
thank you friend, for this wonderful encouragement. you’re so right! He does. that’s such a powerful reminder! Hugs and love xox
Beautiful thoughts! Heartbreaking though, makes me eyes sweat..praying people would turn to Him!!
thank you so much Ali! I am praying with you for our world to return to Him!!! sending big hugs and love xox
Caralyn, thank you for your excellent post and beautiful prayer. I feel and experience God’s presence and love everyday. He hasn’t left us. Yes there are bad things happening everywhere and it doesn’t seem like there’s an end. These are created by Satan and he might be winning right now but Christ will win in the end.
I see beautiful works of God everywhere. Your post is one of them. There are so many people doing great things everyday. We don’t see them because the media and politicians refuse to talk about them. As Christians they don’t do it for accolades or publicity. Please keep looking for the wonderful works of God everyday. Stay safe.
thank you so much for your kind words! i’m so glad you’ve experienced that every day!!!! that’s so awesome. and truthfully, I have too. I need to remember to count my blessings 🙂 You’re so right – He hasn’t left us. And gosh, thank you for saying that about my blog – that touches my heart so incredibly much. praying with you, and will keep my eyes glued, as they say! Hugs and love xox
Make no mistake, just as when it seemed God abandoned Israel because of their paganism and turning their backs on God, he is absolutely doing the same with America. If you read Romans 1:18-32 you see a clear picture of what America has been dong for the past few decades. America has been inviting God to leave this nation since the 1950s. Being a gentlman, He doesn’t stick around where He isn’t welcome. But have heart, this too will work to advance his plan. “Things aren’t falling apart, they are falling into place.” Jan Markell, Olive Tree Ministries. Also, watch this video. Great teaching by john MacArthur. https://youtu.be/Cz8AA_Oa0EU .. but hurry up. The Rapture is most likely the next huge event in God’s plan.
Be blessed
thank you so much Dennis. I look forward to watching MacArthur’s video! thank you for the recco! and you’re right – it’s sad the path America has taken. i pray that we seek His face once more. Hugs and love xox
God hasn’t gone anywhere. Maybe its time you left the Trump cult. I’ll pray for you.
thank you os much Karen for sharing your thoughts. I agree — God has never and will never abandon us! Hugs and love xox
I appreciate your response. 🙏
Thank you for this, so timely. I think of the fact that there are so many people who do still serve God in this country, and I don’t believe he will abandon us. We are still his people. We do not have to be afraid. But we do have to pray. There are two prayer meetings in Washington DC this weekend. Everyone who honors God should join them, no matter their personal religious beliefs. As Christians and Jews, we all serve the same God. (BTW, I posted a link to this post on my FB page.)
Thank you so much Deborah for sharing your thoughts on this. I agree – He will never abandon His children. Oh that’s awesome what’s going on in Washington! I’ll definitely keep those meetings in my prayers – and join at a distance!!! how amazing. God is alive! And thank you for passing this along! it really means a lot! Hugs and love xox
The times we are in are definitely turbulent. There have been other turbulent times such as WW 2. Each generation seems to have its moment where those who believe in Jesus say- For Such A Time As This. God has a plan for you, me and all who follow Jesus to share his love in the midst of the turbulence.
By the way what were you doing driving around in the evening? Not a safe thing in NYC from what I have read. Be safe my friend 🙂
Hi friend, thank you for sharing your thoughts. turbulent for sure. you’re so right – He has a plan, and we can put our faith in His goodness, mercy, forgiveness, and love. And that’s such a comforting thought! Oh – we were driving home from dinner and made a detour to stop at the Krispy Kreme shop in Times Square! haha He’s a big, strong guy, and we were totally safe! thank you for stopping by! i hope you have an awesome night! Hugs and love xox
Hi Caralyn. Another exceptional presentation of what is happening in the world, in our parts of the world. We in Canada are in complete turmoil, with the pandemic, and all that goes with it. Our government leaders acting in unethical ways. Our Prime Minister has said Christians are the worst people in the land, and will be the downfall of the country.
For the past number of months, I have been praying for revival, revival within me that will then spread through every place I go, (which isn’t far right now with the pandemic, and my health restrictions). But I attempt to write Of Christ, and share His Word on line, through various venues, and pray for others as often as possible.
Anyway, sorry for the sidetrack. Our country is in desperate need of change, change that will only come through Holy Spirit conviction upon people, and drawing many to Jesus.
As well as self revival, prayer is for repentance, restoration, leadership in government at all levels. Also for many church fellowships that have changed over the years, to get back to Bible believing, Bible teaching, as God’s Word is still Truth.
Jesus is still The Life Changer, Saviour, Lord, King, Baptizer, Sanctifier, Healer, Restorer, He has always been. We need to invite Him, and allow Him, to work within us, and through us.
I thank Jesus for you, Caralyn, your obedience and willingness to serve Him wherever, however He leads you.
God’s Continuing Blessings, Protection, Safety,
Luv and hugs,
😀❤️🌹😍
Hi George, thank you so much for sharing your heart, and for such kind words. I’m so sorry to hear what is going on in Canada right now!! i had no idea! i will definitely join you in that prayer for our nations and our world! And you’re absolutely right – we need the Holy Spirit! And amen – Jesus is the Life Changer – i pray that we invite Him back into our culture and our countries. And gosh, there is power in prayer! grateful for you, my friend. keeping you and your health in my prayers! Hugs and love xox
Thank you Caralyn.
Luv you a bunch. Hugs.
😀🌹❤
xoxoxo 🙂
Thank you for sharing about your struggles in Canada, I will add your country and church community to my prayers for revivlal.
God Bless You, Joyce
I think you’re on to something. We do need Christians who have lived very selfish, God is my distant cousin lifestyles, to repent and start living as true disciples, with Jesus as Lord. We’ve straddled the fence with culture too long and the consequences are revved up! The Christian life is more than a prayer & a hope for heaven. It’s a path of character, paying attention to Gods Word, loving the unlovely but caring enough to share the good news of Christ.
thank you so much Rick – you’re right – we need to return to Him! And i pray that we do! thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Epitaph – By Merrit Malloy
When I die
Give what’s left of me away
To children
And old men that wait to die.
And if you need to cry,
Cry for your brother
Walking the street beside you.
And when you need me,
Put your arms
Around anyone
And give them
What you need to give to me.
I want to leave you something,
Something better
Than words
Or sounds.
Look for me
In the people I’ve known
Or loved,
And if you cannot give me away,
At least let me live on in your eyes
And not your mind.
You can love me most
By letting
Hands touch hands,
By letting bodies touch bodies,
And by letting go
Of children
That need to be free.
Love doesn’t die,
People do.
So, when all that’s left of me
Is love,
Give me away.
oh wow this is so incredibly powerful. thank you so much for sharing this poem. wow. Love, is the greatest of all things! Hugs and love xox
As one of your Pagan friends I can say that from the many chats I have had with my christians friends and the many books Ive read over the years I suspect its something like this. God gives his creations the means by which they need to survive and how to conduct themselves. An account is kept and those who act against the will of god, which is established from the narratives he has provided through prose and prophet, are judged accordingly.
As a Pagan, I look at the nature of things. What I see in the animal kingdom is animals act irrationally when they are slaves to fear. Fear is what is driving the narrative, but in the history of our world, this is one of the safest times to be alive. Fear enables hate, and hate enables acts of brutality.
If God is watching, Im sure he isnt pleased. You take care of yourself.
thank you Karac for sharing your thoughts on this! what interesting food for thought! fear is definitely a very powerful emotion, and a tool for manipulation, that is for sure! and yes – we need to eradicate hate! that is a top priority. Hugs and love xox
A wonderful, logical apology for Christianity is C.S. Lewis’ book ‘Mere Christianity’.
Yes! That and A Case for Christ
Keep reading your Bible. The last chapter tells about a happy ending. If you are a follower of prophecy what is happening exactly fits events foretold leading up the the end times. You will recall the passage referring to these days as a time of trouble the world has never seen before. Naturally your question is relevant, where is God in what we see today? There is a long answer but I’ll make it short. Lucifer went rogue in heaven and was cast out. Lucifer said God didn’t understand the feelings and aspirations of angels and other created intelligences and he had a better form of government that enhanced personal freedom. He told Eve the same thing. After he resisted God’s reasoning with him finally God had to throw him out of heaven but didn’t destroy him then as only God knew where lucifer’s sin would lead and He could have been misunderstood and questioned as a God of love and intelligences serve Him out of fear rather than choice. God only wants His creation to accept Him by choice not fear. So God’s way had to be accepted as best when intelligences were able to contrast the results of sin as opposed to God’s way to happiness through heavens rules. I know from your blogs you are convinced who has the best form of governance God rather than satan. Sin has affected the earth, the animals, the sea and humans and even scientists who don’t believe in God tell us this world is in self-destruct mode. So Lucifer’s way obviously doesn’t provide happiness. We do not know the exact time when Jesus will appear in the clouds of heaven to take those who want to be in His safe environment. We do know from the Bible satan will try and fake that event by appearing as a dazzling being in different parts of the world. Hindus, Moslems and Christians are looking for some heavenly personage to come and rescue this world through their respective writings so many will be fooled by those appearances. But satan will not be permitted to imitate the way Jesus returns coming from the sky. The fake will just appear as an angel of light but only those who have carefully studied the Bible will be able to detect this fake by the manner of his appearances on earth. Many will be deceived. As soon as every created being understands God’s way is in their best interests and make their choice this will empower God to wipe out satan, his angels and humans who prefer to live under satan’s world conditions. The end of Revelation describes a recreated earth populated by those who love God and are themselves restored to perfection. Read your Bible with that assurance and know our present world condition is a warning God is going to intervene soon before we totally destroy the earth and ourselves under the prompting of satan.
Thank you so much Ian for this powerful response. you really said something powerful: God wants us to accept Him by choice, not fear. BINGO! that is exactly right, and why we were given free will. Becuase what is love if it is forced? praying with you! Hugs and love xox
Hi Caralyn! Excellent! Everything you said is right on the mark. God has been trying to get our attention for many years, each year getting louder and louder. It’s like C. S. Lewis said, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains.” And we have refused to listen. Now we’re at the brink. We either repent and return to Him or He will allow our nation to destroy itself.
I was encouraged when President Trump called for national prayer when the Covid-19 deal hit. I thought perhaps it would wake some folks up, and hopefully God would answer in a mighty way. Unfortunately, I watched as government closed businesses and churches, but allowed abortion mills to continue murdering the innocent unborn. We can’t continue in our sin and expect God to have mercy on us, much less bless us.
The one thing I have seen come out of all of this mess this year is that God is showing us we cannot trust in anything or anyone but Him. From politicians to celebrities to athletes to medical professionals to our justice system to even many of our religions leaders, all have shown they do not have the answers, they have no problem lying to suit their own desires, and they certainly cannot be trusted. God is the only place we can put our trust, and He’s the only one who can heal our land. And He promises He will, if we repent and return.
Much could be said about this, but I’ll stop with a bit of hope. This coming Saturday in Washington, D. C., there will be many people gathered to not only pray for God’s mercy for our nation, but also to repent and ask for His forgiveness. It’s called The Return, and you can find out about it at thereturn.org. Different speakers and different times of repentance and prayer all throughout the day. And at Noon, Franklin Graham will be leading a prayer walk from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol. You can watch it livestreamed if you’re not able to attend in person. I’m planning on praying and watching myself, and I encourage others to do the same.
Sorry for the length, but like I said, your insight on this was spot on. And I join you in your prayer. May God forgive us for turning from Him and murdering His innocent, and may He heal our land. Keep hoping in Him! 😊
Hi Kennth, thank you so much for sharing your heart, and for these hopeful words! I’ve never heard that saying about Jesus shouting in our pain, but gosh that really resonated with me. Amen – this has been such a powerful exercise in trust, and demonstration in our need for Him. I pray that we come to that realization, and return to Him. I’ll absolutely be watching Prayer Meeting in Washington. what an incredible demonstration of faith! that is amazing! i’ll be praying with you! Hugs and love xox
Speaking of Jesus shouting in our pain, I had to smile when you wondered what God was trying to communicate with “His incessant hurricane gusts.” Reminded me of that scene in It’s A Wonderful Life when the angel Clarence told George “You’ve got your wish. You’ve never been born.” Then the wind gust blew the door open and snow everywhere and Clarence shouts out the door, “You don’t have to make all that fuss about it.” 🤣🤣 Jesus has an awesome sense of humor! 😊
FYI – the last time people were this concerned about our nation and had a repentance and prayer meeting on the DC mall, was back in 1980, just a few weeks before that presidential election. They asked God’s forgiveness and for His mercy to turn the country around, and a few weeks later Ronald Reagan won the election in a land slide. I know God can and will use anyone for His glory, but it just proves that it all depends on Him. Have a wonderful weekend! Praying with you Saturday! 😊🙏🙌
haha glad it made you smile!! 🙂
Oh, I forgot to mention. When you wonder what God’s trying to tell you, ask Him. I know that’s a – well duh! – 🤣 statement, but He’s been telling me lately that I have a bad habit of stating my need, but not actually asking. He wants us to trust and depend on Him enough to truly and specifically ask. And when we ask, we’ve started a conversation where He can respond and answer. So, when you wonder, just say Father, I sense You’re trying to tell me something, but I don’t understand. Please open my eyes and help me see. 🤗💛🌻
Wow I love that so much Kenneth – yes – He will open our eyes and ears to His word! Also! I’m just now seeing my typo in your name on my original response!! Oh my gosh I am so sorry!! Clearly my fingers were going faster than I could keep up!!
Hahaha! Oh my goodness, think nothing of it. I promise, it barely registered. 🤣
Been watching The Return prayer gathering in DC. It is Awesome!! I hope you get a chance to see some of it and join in. 🙏🌻
That’s such an amazing thing that happened yesterday! Unfortunately I was hiking all day without service but I was praying along in God’s beauty! Hugs and love xox
• I think – as Christians – when we know we have done something wrong – that something wrong has happened – there has to be a recognition.
• This recognition is the offering. It is the heifer.
We are in the thick of a series of injustices – and the biggest Injustice is that everytime – it seems – it’s their fault.
There’s nothing wrong – except them.
Everytime.
And then we say God will judge us because of the gays in our midst.
As Christans we have to try and make amends where Injustice is present.
Sometimes just recognising that it is there is all the offering required.
Instead, we go to Church and call them – the ones suffering the Injustice – wrong.
There is something wrong – but we are looking at it in the wrong places.
If you take the long view – the God view – and think about God’s Justice on Nations – it’s clearer.
You are right about idols – money.
But it is corruption – the refusal to offer health Universally – the reticence to hear when others say the systems are failing them – who we blame poverty on – who’s interests we are protecting.
Something has changed fundamentally – you are right.
But it may not be what it seems.
When did our interests supercede God’s?
Is we were to take an honest think – about Jesus addressing us from the Capitol Building, live – what would we hear?
It would not be the sin of homosexuals. Or women leading Church.
We have become selfish. And greedy. And deaf. And then self righteous.
So much so, that we’ve made the very ones suffering wrong – and are sure we are right.
Sure of it.
They don’t work hard enough.
We have become blind to ourselves.
You should see what it looks like from a little distance away.
The Bible says a lot about Justice – both Old and New – who’s it is and when it’s applied.
Sin comes for is all in the end – individually – between God and the person – when the world is brought to an end – and it will be – but God’s Justice on Earth comes to Nations who forget how to treat God’s children – and what a Holy God looks like.
Injustice.
We are not looking properly.
And they are there ones who are wrong.
Hi Kreemer, thank you for sharing your thoughts on this. We need to return to the Father! Hugs and love xox
I remember feeling the same when I was left feeling like I was alone and battling on all fronts. Then I Iistened to a great sermon which suggested God’s back may feel like it is towards us sometimes when he is walking ahead of us to flight our battles. I think idol worship is a bit of a theme. I think we all need to look at the idols in our lives.
thank you so much for sharing that. wow that’s so comforting. he’s walking ahead of us! love that. Hugs and love xox
YES, I believe God is calling us out for our transgressions as a nation. But, he doesn’t shout. His whisper is in the fires, the hurricanes, the unrest, the misguided looters and unmasked protesters. Through these and them He whispers, “See where your path is taking you? Turn from your greed and selfishness, turn from your ‘Me First’ attitudes. Return to the Beatitudes. Follow Me! Until we do, we will continue down the path of destruction we’re on … Heaven help us!!
thank you Jan! yes! i think you’re right about that – His whisper is in the fires and the unrest. Praying with you!!! Hugs and love xox
Wow! An excellent post, Caralyn, and a primary question that has likely crossed every Christian’s mind at one time or another in recent months. It would not be out of character for God to withdraw His hand from our nation, a nation that has said in effect, “We know better than you God on how to define marriage and we know life begins not at conception, but at birth. We know better than you O Lord when it comes to self-governing and do not require or want your laws in our courts nor do we desire your teachings in our schools. If fact, if you push us too far, we will remove your places of worship across our land as well.” Who could blame God for withdrawing His hand from such a people as this, one nation that, in many ways, no longer views itself as one nation under God; instead, it considers itself to be one equal to or above God. All of this could be a telltale sign of why the west, specifically the United States, is not a significant player in end-time events. Blessings to you, my sister, and thank you for such an engaging, thought-provoking post!
Or, worshiping a man who said he is the “chosen one.” Christians have abandoned Jesus for Trump. God save us all!
Hi Darryl, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this. You’re right – We need His guidance now more than ever. Joining you in prayer!!!! Come, Holy Spirit! Hugs and love xox
Such a great post. Our troubles are many as you stated and I myself said quite some time ago that God was tired of the things He was seeing in us. We are so far from each other in love, hope and togetherness and instead of what’s happening around us making it better, it’s tearing us farther apart. I feel we are lost as a nation, communities and just being people. God wants us to turn to Him but instead we’re turning on each other about everything. I feel we have turned back 50 years in some areas and it shouldn’t be that way. We need God to heal but before that can happen, He needs to come first, not man. Any man.
Thank you so much!! you’re right – we are all SO far from each other in love. it is so heartbreaking how politics has torn this country, family, friends, apart. We really are lost. Come, Holy Spirit, and heal this nation! i pray that we turn to Him and seek the Father’s face! Hugs and love xox
Amen
🥰🥰🥰
Thank you for sharing your heart. Although, I am not from the same country as you, but usually the root of issue of most problems are due to the lack of emotional intelligence in leaders. Hunger for power, to he politically correct would eventually contribute to long term damage. I will pray alongside you for your nation.
Thank you so much Abel for sharing your thoughts on this. our country definitely needs unity during this time! thank you for your prayrs! Hugs and love xox
Thank you for sharing this Caralyn! With all the chaos, deaths, social injustices, and uncertainty I myself also questioned where was God. But despite everything, I saw his spirit in fellow strangers helping out the elderly when they could not go to the stores to get necessary items or communities banding together trying to prep food boxes for those financially hit by this pandemic. The little things that I saw in people trying to help others out made me smile a bit and made me realize that God was here with us.
thank you so much for your encouraging words. that is so beautiful that you witness that. “look for the helpers” – as mr. rodgers used to say! yes He is! Hugs and love xox
If people are not allowed to say nice things about Ruth Bader Ginsberg now when she has just died, when are they? Carolyn in one of my recent posts I referred to the funeral of John McCain. Many of his political foes including Joe Biden and Barack Obama were there and graciously celebrated his life. As we are reminded every time people needlessly lose their lives to guns, now is not the time, people need to be given the time to grieve.
Thank you for voicing your concern. I just want to reiterate that I was not saying that we are not allowed to say nice things about RBG. Quite the contrary. I think it is wonderful to honor her memory and celebrate her life. I meant only to point out the degree to which people are doing so.
It is a natural stage of grief. There must be so much grief in America right now with the death of 200 000 people, perhaps there is all manner of grief being expressed right now. I still cannot get my head around it. According to NBC one in every 351 New Yorkers has died. Everybody in New York must have been touched by this.
you’re right – there is a lot of grief for sure. we need healing. and yes – NYC has been hit especially hard. Hugs and love xox
Wow, what a stunning piece!
Too much negative occurrences in our world definitely cause one to conclude that God has given up on His creation, and we’re left to our own devices, struggles and futile attempts at solving them all.
But I do for a fact that God is very much in the mix and midst of everything happening. Looking closely, we will see His involvement as we are able to go through each devastating event still believing and hoping for the best.
You’re right, the world has actually indicated in very certain terms that God is not needed. But I don’t believe that anything silly ideas or behaviours from us mere mortals can cause our awesome heavenly Father who is the most faithful, loving, compassionate and patient to abandon us.
Thank you for sharing. It is okay if reblogged this, please?
Thank you so much Jouyoz for you’re thoughtful response. You’re absolutely right – He is loving, merciful, patient and will never abandon us. That is something to find great hope in! And absolutely – I would be honored if you reblogged it! Hugs and love xox
Thank you for the opportunity of sharing your creation. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
Do keep safe and God bless you.
🥰🥰🥰🥰 and you as well!
and you as well! xoxox 🙂
My favorite of yours. It’s sort of like therapy to read what I’m thinking. Thank you. God Bless.
aw thank you so much Jack and Dodie! I’m so glad to hear that! Hugs and love xox
I heard Him tell me this same verse a short while ago. I think He is letting us see and live the pain so we will call out to Him and repent. At the same time, I think judgment on the evildoers is about to begin, and I think that is what Jer. 11:14 refers to in our current time. I believe with my whole heart that His children who cling to Him are protected, but I don’t think it will be easy by any stretch of the imagination. Blessings to you!
oh wow, that is just incredible! you’re right – He is calling us back to Himself! Hugs and love xox
Believe it or not God is already guiding us. There’s videos up of so many Trump supporters like you would not believe. Parades happening all over the place, even farmers took their tractors out in support. Millions of people collectively coming together despite Covid. These people are not afraid and trust God is protecting them.
Be glad the NYPD is there to protect the city this time from any rioting and looters. I see the Brianna case as another distraction from the left, the wildfires are more than likely set by arsonists. It’s hard to tell what is really the truth but you kind of get the idea that the left is letting the destruction take place but really this is a fight between Good and Evil and we are witnessing a pivotal moment in history.
Things will get better, the storms will subside once things settle, unfortunately there are a lot of angry, greedy and hateful people right now but hopefully these people will find their peace in life.
The biggest thing is the truth needs to come out because a lot of lies are circling around on both political parties but the left is also destroying itself as we have been dealing with their greed, power and corruption. We did turn from God and this is just the result. People chose Satan instead which has lead us to this point.
Hopefully we will continue to follow God and a lot of things will change for the better. Sometimes we gotta just turn off the mainstream news because all its showing is more and more distractions that they want Americans to see instead of the good that is happening.
There was no riots, looting, fires or any disaster of any kind with Trump gatherings… well minus the boat sinking mayhem which was quite hilarious, nobody got hurt the boats were too close to one another with their engines creating heavy waves sinking them all. Either way this is already God sending us a message is we can vote for those who want to cause mayhem or those who want to bring America back together again.
We don’t need to really social distance anymore since people are taking precautions and it’s up to the people to decide whether to risk it and trust in God or to live in fear. I choose to trust in God. We gotta move on with our lives but the left doesn’t want that because there are people who like the government controlling their lives instead of taking control of their lives which America is founded on taking control of your life to what you want it to be, not what the government wants.
God does let us make our own decisions in life and he will show us the way. I just pray that the destruction caused by so many will pass as the rest of America want to get back to their lives and not hide in fear anymore.
thank you so much for sharing that – that is so encouraging. You’re right – God gave us free will, and we need to choose to return to Him! Hugs and love xox
Sounds plausible to me.
Thanks so much Greg. Glad you stopped by. Hugs and love xox
Thanks Greg, so glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Caralyn, you made so many good points. This is a season for where we are called to repent and turn from our wicked ways back to God. It is a time for course correction so we do not crash. Correction is not rejection. The pain of a country self destructing causes many to turn to God and repenting for the sins of our country. The blood of all the babies that were aborted cries out to God for justice. Each one of us can make a difference, as we cry out to God, in humility. He hears and answers. Jeffrey King, made some excellent points in his comment. Jonathan Cahn, who he mentions makes so excellent points. This is a link to a 24 minute video that talks about the parallels between Israel and the USA. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtW9s47EAe4
Love and hugs! Keep up the good work of blogging! xo
thank you so much! oh gosh, i so appreciate your encouraging words. You’re right – a season of repentance! thanks for the video link! i look forward to watching! Hugs and love xox
I don’t think it is just a USA thing, I think the overarching issues you bring up affect the westernised church worldwide – I’ve been reading Malachi as part of my preparation for an upcoming sermon series and think it is just as relevant today right across the board.
Intro on YouVersion Bible app for Malachi says; Malachi (“my messenger”) challenges the people to honor God properly in their worship and in their dealings with one another. The world could then come to know the Lord as the great king…
To do that we need to repent and accept that for to long we have become self-reliant, self-focused, want, want, want, and have not been doing the things that God would have us do…
But Hope is coming 😁
So continue being the Malachi’s of our day and point people back to Him, and be the example of what it means to love others 😁
Thank you Braypa for sharing your heart. amen to that! Hope is coming! i fully believe that! Hugs and love xox
Have taken the liberty to share 😁
Have a good one & God bless
Amazing! Thank you, I appreciate you passing it along! Hugs and love xox
Sounds like we need to repend of pride and trusting in our own efforts and strength instead of tusting in God.
Joyce
Great post and very insightful! I always envisioned America as mystery Babylon as spoken about in Revelation 17. Why mystery? Well at the time John received these visions on the island of patmos America had not been discovered. I think you are spot on that God sometimes allows people to experience life with their idols. It takes the cry of Gods people and them humbling themselves and turning from their wicked ways for the land to be healed (2 Chronicles 7:14) one thing for certain is: If the church is still here then we must be the light in this dark world and reflect Christs glory and love. God bless you
thank you so much! i’m so glad this resonated with you. Oh wow – a modern day Babylon! amen – we must be the light! Hugs and love xox
You have it well sussed.
Thank you so much Frank. I appreciate that. Hugs and love xox
thank you so much Frank. Hugs and love xox
[…] Where is God? […]
Thank you for the link up! Hugs and love xox
I have a fairly unique view on God. My belief is that He is inside each of us, He is our hidden potential to be the very best version of ourselves. But He is also outside of us too, calling us to be better, to do better. I believe all of us can tap into this “Higher Self” using tools such as prayer and meditation. We may not come up with answers which can solve society-wise problems, but we can at least change our own individual behaviour. And I think that’s how real social change happens… when lots of like-minded people get together, each of them striving to be the best they can be in their own individual lives, in all aspects of their lives: spiritually, emotionally, physically, socially.
God can never abandon us. He is always inside each of us. We can draw on His strength in times of need. I really do believe that.
thank you so much Rock for sharing your heart and your thoughts on this. So very moving. I do believe that He lives in our hearts too! amen – He will never abandon us! Hugs and love xox
Dear Caralyn
These are for sure frightening and disquieting times. We should remember, though, the promises of Jesus, especially Matthew 28: 20 “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Jesus will never stop hearing our prayers, and we should never stop praying. What we need to do is to make sure that our prayers align with God’s will. I find St John’s gospel very encouraging. The five word summary is “Follow me. Love each other.”
As I read your post this morning, I was glancing over the top of my phone at the sky. There was a magnificent double rainbow, the brightest I have ever seen, and it lasted and lasted. It was glowing for about fifteen minutes, without fading or flickering.
Don’t fear, Caralyn. God is with us, now and always.
God bless you, sister,
With love,
Penny
That is interesting. We also had a vivid double rainbow a few weeks back.
They’re really so beautiful!!
Hi Penny, thank you so much for your encouragement. you’re so right – we need to draw on those promises of Jesus! a double rainbow! that was definietly God! 🙂 Hugs and love xox
I read this earlier and didn’t have the time to comment, but I wanted to come back and visit again. I’ve always found the things you write very compelling and there is so much to consider here. I struggle with my relationship with God so much and the title of your post is something I have asked myself on so many occasions that I have spent time contemplating that very topic many times. Being someone of an alternative sexuality makes me wonder if God really loves me, it’s made me wonder if I can accept myself as I am and still feel a close relationship with God. And honestly, I don’t know…
But I also recognize a trend in our society that has always bothered me – the worship of people. It makes no difference to me if someone is famous or not, has done good things for others or not, I just think making someone an idol (as you’ve described it) is disturbing. Granted, I believe there are people that have done phenomenal things in their lives and recognizing the good works others have done as an exemplification of how to live isn’t necessarily bad, but worshipping some person could mean adopting their negative aspects too and that would ultimately be a bad thing to do as well.
Anyways, this is a wonderful and beautiful post and I am thank having read it.
hi friend, thank you for sharing your heart. you’re so right – we need to get back to the Cross and return to our Father! Hugs and love xox
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you that kill the prophets, and stone them which are sent to you, how often would I have gathered your children together, even as a hen gathers her chickens under her wings, and you would not!”
Matthew 23:37.
You are right, ‘Israel’ doesn’t refer to the patch of ground on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. It refers to Humanity. His Children.
I don’t know if you have ever read any of Spurgeon’s sermon’s but they are quite something. People used to pack his church in London so full (in the thousands) that people would be clinging to the pillars and balconies to hear the gospel.
If you’re interested, here’s a link to Spurgeon’s take on this verse that he gave in 1888:
https://www.spurgeongems.org/sermon/chs2381.pdf
I don’t know about the US but in the UK, the national broadcaster (The BBC) goes out of its way to avoid mentioning religion, but if it has to, Christianity is way down the list of religious to mention. It is embarrassed by the rich relationship this country once had with God. The Queen is the only person in public life who consistently mentions her faith in God and looks to Christ for an example but few others in public office, even in her own family, share her steadfastness in the faith.
It always amazes me that there is NOTHING new under the sun. Every single trial and tribulation that occurs today has been experienced before and documented in the Bible, sometimes over and over again. I heard people asking the same questions about the Twin Towers as when the Tower of Siloam fell (Luke 13). Likewise the 12 Plagues Of Egypt and COVID-19. Valuable Lessons on every page – ignored and discarded as fairy tales and children’s stories.
Thanks so much Ally for sharing those verses! How very powerful. I will have to look up Spurgeon’s sermons! Thanks for the recco! Hugs and love xox
This post is exactly how I’ve been feeling! Thank you for putting it all into words and sharing 💗
Thanks so much Heather, I’m so glad it resonated with you!! Hugs and love xox
wow! Such a heartfelt post!
And the picture of you is beautiful as usual!
Thank you for this wake up post!
Aw thank you so much 🙂 and gosh you’re kind to say that!! Hugs and love xox
There are many occurrences we read about in the Bible where God allowed people to do things their way. My hope and prayer is that this world comes to see their need for a Savior and that His way is the only way.
You’re right about that Stephanie! I pray that we decide to draw near to Him! Hugs and love xox
And thanks for stopping by! Xox
I believe God is here and He is waiting for us to come back to Him. I pray daily that he helps us ALL to come back to His graces. God bless you, keep writing and spreading the faith. I love your articles.
Thank you RC 🙂 you’re right – He is calling us a new to Him! Thanks for saying that 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Dear BBB, when I saw that you had ‘liked’ my WP Eye to Eye haiku post this morning, I had to view yours. What a refreshing blessing to read your post, as you ‘see’ what so many of us do. I too feel the same but usually find myself shouted down by the ‘far-left mob’ on FB and Tw. We live in totally different worlds (small Louisiana city vs NYC) but believe in the same loving God who may be teaching his wayward children a very tough lesson as he did the Israelites. I join my prayers for repentance and mercy with the many others flowing up to God through Christ. Peace.
Hi Al! Thank you so much for for stopping by! I will definitely join with you in prayer. Amen – He is a loving God!! Hugs and love xox
Do we need repentance? Certainly, every one of us. But we, as a whole, don’t realize it. And we may well need another 9/11-ish event to wake us up.
Caralyn, you would have been very young when 9/11 happened. What was striking, at least in my neck of the woods, is that people were rattled; we had lost the swagger of invincibility. Business signs everywhere read “pray for our country” or “God bless the USA.” People who hadn’t made a habit of it were suddenly praying and paying attention to God.
We’ve lost that fear that we are vulnerable. As a culture, we reject the notion that we are in the hands of a transcendent Creator. I’ve just finished reading “The Benedict Option,” and I agree with author Rod Dreher that we have lost the culture war (a hugely important book, by the way).
But has God abandoned us? No ma’am, not at all. God is just waiting for the culture to realize that it abandoned Him. Until that happens, believers fight the good fight and stay the course, making their corner of the world a better place. Hugs and love– Mike
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this. You may be right – 9/11 certainly woke us up to our need for God. Amen – God has not abandoned us. Thanks Mike for this response. Hugs and love xox
God didn’t move. We did. This country has been under His wrath for many years and the persecution of Christians is just beginning. It’s happened before. It’s happening again. As Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world.” A quick glance around will tell you that’s true. Spending eternity in the presence of God’s looking better and better. Be strong in your faith. God’s got this.
You’re so right Rollie. He doesn’t move, we do. Amen – God’s got this. Praying for a return to him! Hugs and love xox
Truly, the question remains. THAT is what it truly means to be “woke”. To know God so well that you are enabled to see His signs, His hand, and when He removed His hand. Yet, He sits upon the eternal throne. All is filtered through His plans, will, and desires. Nothing surprises Him. Nothing slips by Him. Nothing defeats Him. This is what we can rest in through these storms. God’s grip – Alan
Wow what a powerful response. Thank you Alan. You’re right – nothing defeats Him. True that! Hugs and love xox
2 Timothy 3:12-14,16-17
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. [13] But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
[14] But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them ; [16] All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: [17] That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
God completes us with His gracious words, as the world waxes worse it simply means our light of faith will shine brighter. I believe God hears all the prayers and has answered them in eternity as we patiently wait for them to play out in time. When He spoke to Moses in Exodus, He said he heard the cries of His people for many many years! He hears, He knows, He has answered…we patiently wait
Genesis 50:24
And Joseph said unto his brethren, I die: and God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land unto the land which he sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. God did this generations later through Moses!
2 Corinthians 1:20-22
For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God BY US. [21] Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; [22] Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
We have the Spirit of God and will be kept by Him in these crazy times, it is our deepest desire to see more find Christ as our lives shine into the ever growing darkness.
Sorry for the length, but it is important to know God indeed judges nations but never utterly forsakes His people Heb 13:5-6! Remember just Lot 2Peter 2:9
Great post
Thank you Chad for sharing these encouraging verses. You’re right – we will be kept by Him in these wild times. That’s for sure! Hugs and love xox
We are not alone, we’ve never been alone. But what we, collectively and individually, have done is place our attention on this world. If we come back to the understanding that ‘we are all in this together’, then we will find that God is there, already. Look within.
You’re so right C- we’re never alone. God will be with us always. Hugs and love xox
Well said. Bless you.
Thank you so much 🙂 Hugs and love xox
God never withdraws from us, it is we who withdraw from Him. And when we do, in the most vile of circumstances, He generally cleans up in His own Way.
You’re so right about that. We are the ones who withdraw. I pray we return! Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
I think you’re on point. God does not and cannot interfere with humanity’s free will, so in essence, the disasters happening all around us and throughout history are of our doing, of our sinful behaviors. Therefore, the only way to change this downward spiral is through repentance and turning to God with a humble heart, asking for forgiveness, in praying for the whole world, including ourselves. I was thinking of writing my own blog piece on this issue, and I think I will fit a post in sometime very soon. Thanks for the reminder and a spot-on post.
Thank you so much Dot. I’m so glad this resonated with you. You’re right – repentance is the way. Hugs and love xox
You’re welcome! <3 xxx ooo
🥰🥰🥰
Good post. Yes, we need repentance. God is always with us, but He can not accept our sins (which include apathy among many others). I can feel Him moving in His body of believers, but also the goats are being separated from the sheep. Matthew 25:31-45.
In my own community, we are seeing unity between denominations and more awareness outside of our local area. When else have we been called to pay attention to faith communities outside our own? We are being told to stand up for our faith if we want to be able to worship.
Our current state of affairs has me yearning for more relationship with Jesus. It’s been sad to see in real-time the church-goers who’s faith was only Sunday-deep. No Sunday service possible, so they’ve just pushed the faith relationship to the back burner. I hope people begin to wake up.
Edit to say – His grace covers all our sins, but we have to humble ourselves, acknowledge, and ask for it. 🙂
Got it!! 🙂
Thank you so much! You’re right about that – we need repentance. I hope so too! So glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Hey BBB….I saw your pingback
What a great post there!
You are right on point. Everything we go through is our doing. We blame the devil but we are our own enemies. Something I feel God so close, other times too he seems so far away that I leaves me wanting and hopeless but I bounce back to retain his trust. I do his wil but still sinning…somehow but now I can’t determine whether he is close or far…..I just pray😥😥
Hey Aaron! Oh thank you so much! I’m glad this resonated with you. Amen – joining you in prayer, my friend. Glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Where is God- God is within us all. Doesn’t the bible teach we’re created in his image. Doesn’t the bible teach that God is all knowing, powerful, creator of ALL things, Alpha-Omega-nothing is hidden from God. What you’re seeing is what you’ve put out into the world. You see separation and divide because that’s who you are (generalizing). You point out evil in protest, rioters and WAP (a song) because that’s who you are. What we’re seeing is what we’ve been planting – it’s harvest time and you’re asking where is God! Check your garden – Karma is here and so is God!!!
I love that so much – check your garden. Yes! God is near for sure. Thanks for this encouragement! Hugs and love xox
America locks kids in cages.
America forces immigrant women to have hysterectomies.
America encourages people to shoot each other if we disagree on politics.
America has a leader with a red hat who says he’s the chosen one.
America has a system that allows Black people to get murdered by cops without repercussion.
God hasn’t left us. We have left God.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this Michael. We certainly need to return to God. Hugs and love xox
What a lovely post. Your question, “Where is God?” is reflected throughout Scripture by David, Jeremiah, and others. It is not so much a reflection of a lost faith but a question of what has happened around us.
God bless you, dear.
Love and Blessings,
Rev. James M. Dakis
Hi James, thank you for this powerful response. Yes – what has happened around us is wheee we need to question. Hugs and love xox
Great post. 🙂
Thank you so much Amanda. Hope you have a great weekend. Hugs and love xox
Thank you for sharing your thoughts in this post. I, as a Dane is also praying for your country as you are a beacon of light for the rest of the world and your Constitution is worth fighting for
Thank you so much Maria, for your prayers and encouragement. I am so touched by your kindness! Hugs and love xox
Yes, so true!
Thank you friend. 🙂 glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
God NEVER leaves us but we can draw away from him. I think what we are seeing is more people doing that than ever before in our country. Our prayers for peace and love to prevail are important. We have to trust his wisdom and caring.
You’re so right about that. Prayer is so important during this time!!! Joining you in prayer. Hugs and love xox
great question; I wish I had the answer…
Thanks Jim – yes me too. Have a wonderful weekend. Hugs and love xox
There are so many things to say on your question but I think you can sum it up with this. What answer brings hope? Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” So if your thoughts turn to despair or hopelessness then that’s not God. When Jesus was in the boat sleeping and the disciples woke him because they thought they were going to die we see that in the middle of that storm he had perfect peace. So much so that Jesus was sleeping during a storm. Yes the world is in an extremely crazy storm right now but God is moving people. Some don’t even know it but soon they will. If we as God for his eyes for this time we begin to see a different picture. One where families are actually spending time together again. One where God is strengthening the core of church (where 2 or 3 are gathered in his name). One where his spirit is moving in people in new ways. One where all of us are being asked by God who do we serve. And that is good. And with every work of God there is a counterfeit work of the enemy and I think that is where our earthly eyes get focused too quickly.
I also just want to say that the way you hear God is so cool. The wind story was so spot on.
Thank you so much Dan!! You’re so right – we’ve got to cling to hope! I love that verse from Romans. Thanks for that uplifting reminder! Hugs and love xox
[…] Where is God? […]
Thanks for the link up! Hugs and love xox
We’ve raised RGB to deity status? Have you seen any of your man Trump’s rallies? Have you heard the things many of his followers say that make him into a deity…or are their voices drowned out by the sounds of children screaming from their cages at the border. Well, at least they got to be born so they could truly enjoy their suffering, right? You have perfected twisting religion and politics into something really gross, something the Jesus I learned about in church would shake his head at. I’m going to assume your growing hypocrisy is a blind spot, but it’s getting harder to read every day.
You lost me with your opening statement and the rest of your post did nothing to clear things up. Can you explain yourself, please?
Caralyn mentioned that we’ve raised RGB to deity status…which is kind of hypocritical since she’s a strong Trump supporter and his followers have turned him into more of a Christ-like figure than any politician I’ve ever seen, despite the fact he’s done things like create an environment for COVID to flourish and lie about it, or to put children in cages at the border and lie about it, or to disgrace our veterans and military leaders in multiple ways and lie about it. He said in 2016 that he could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue and not lose voters. I think he’s correct, and it’s disgusting. People who should be good Christians are lining up behind him, telling themselves whatever story they need to believe so they can check that box without looking in the mirror and seeing what’s really there.
Thank you for clarifying that Joshua. I agree that deifying anyone is wrong and I’m not quite sure I agree that this has been done with RBG but there has certainly been no shortage of it with Trump supporters, in spite of the fact that many of us who have tried to support the GOP for decades feel misrepresented by him.
No problem Jim. I’m 3-3 in voting Democrat or GOP in presidential elections…yup a real life independent and I don’t get at this point how anyone with a conscience can support him. He’s giving real republicans a very bad name.
Thank you Joshua for sharing your thoughts. I’m sorry you feel I’m twisting politics and religion. In my opinion, my religious beliefs must influence my political beliefs. Have a great weekend. Hugs and love xox
So…kids in cages and forced hysterctomies then. Gotcha Caralyn Collar.
I’m unsure why you’re trying to intimidate me by using my full name? Is that supposed to be a threat? Bullying will not be tolerated on this blog, Peter.
The more I think about it the more I recognize it’s just too bad they aren’t being influenced in this case. But, you’re in NY. We already know how that state is going.
I’m just showing you a mirror Caralyn. If you don’t like what you see, consider that your twisting religious/politcal views are supporting a man who is racist and is trying to divide our country. A man who supports killing others who oppose him (Kyle R victims, Khashoggi). You are being played and naively keeping your head in the sand. I’m not the bully here. Years later you will thank me. I hope it’s not too late for you.
Hugs xoxo
It’s actually pretty simple, Caralyn. No, God is not withdrawing because He never leaves. He is less than a heartbeat away in each one of us, with no differences. The problem is we withdraw from God. And the signs of that are all over. I often write that reading the Bible about the Israelites wandering aimlessly in the desert is the story of us. The Israelites turned from God and made idols to worship. They wandered for 40 years for a journey that should have taken 11 days. Eleven days!!! And we are certainly wandering aimlessly these days, with no direction and no vision of where we are headed. And are idols are all around us. Sad but true. Ted
Thank you so much for this encouraging response. You’re so right – He never leaves!! What a comforting truth!! Thanks Ted. Hugs and love xox
Very pertinent blog for our day and age. So many are asking the same question. The world has, for so long, made gods of many other things that they have forgotten the true God. Somehow like Paul when he was walking through Athens and saw that the city “was given to idols.” He saw an idol there on it written, “To the Unknown God.” This reflects the state of our societies today; God’s image stands among others but His true identity is now unknown.
Thank you so much Lea for your kind words. I pray we return to Him and seek His face. Glad you stopped by. Hugs and love xox
Man, this post has “haunted” my thoughts over the past two days. I don’t believe God is punishing us. I believe He is allowing a nation to experience the consequences of their misguided notions and actions. That’s a very different thing. It’s like when a stubborn teenager gets pissy with their parents and demands their right to do something stupid. The parent discusses, gives reasons, argues, but if the child continues to stick to their stubbornness the parent goes “Ok…fine. see what happens when you act a fool.”.
Do we need to repent? Individually, oh yes. There is a principle that when God calls a nation to repentance He always starts first with His people. We can’t “save the nation” and I don’t think we are called to. We are called to love Him above all and then our neighbor. We individually get right with God and then reach out.
As soon as all the chaos began I made an odd (for me) choice to run to Him, increase my time in the word and prayer to see what would happen. Peace like a river…joy in the midst of darkness, and a closer relationship to Him than ever. This I highly recommend.
Thank you so much Will for sharing your thoughts on this. I’m so glad it struck a chord with you. Amen – I think you’re spot on about that – we’re acting like a stubborn teen, that’s for sure. Peace like a river – I pray that for our world too!! Hugs and love xox
What a thoughtful, challenging post – thanks for sharing!
And I do think you’re right, at least insofar as “what you sow, that you shall reap”. We’ve been sowing anger, bad attitudes, and a disrespect for God and His commands for a long time. The chaos and negativity is a natural consequence.
Joining you in prayer that this whole thing will be mitigated, but mostly that our culture turns to God!
Thank you so much – I’m so glad this resonated with you. You’re right – unfortunately we’re reaping what we’ve sown. We need big time prayer!! Hugs and love xox
Caralyn, your timing in this post is so amazing. I’m reading it on Saturday morning, the 26th. At this very moment there is a gathering of 1000’s and 1000’s gathered at the capital mall in DC to pray and repent. God is pressing on all of our hearts to turn back to Him. Someone mentioned in one of the comments above the Rabbi Jonathan Cahn. He is one of the main speakers and your post very much echoes his message … he urged people to turn from the idols we have made and turn back to the Lord. I believe the Lord truly is pressing on all of our hearts to return, to pray, and to be light in the darkest of places.
Thank you so much Shelly. I’m so glad this resonated with you. Oh wow that is so amazing! Praying with those gathered!! Yes!! Hugs and love xox
You sure you don’t want to be on stage every Sunday sharing the word as you do here
Hahah oh my gosh you’re too funny. Thank you 🙂 Hugs and love xox
A big Amen to your prayers Caralyn!
Aw thank you so much Temiloluwa! Amen indeed! Hugs and love xox
Yes, I believe we are getting what we deserve. This country wants nothing to do with the One, True, God. We have turned our backs on Him as a whole and we are reaping what we sow. The bible says in the end times they will call right wrong and wrong right and all you have to do is look up and see this is all true. He loves His children though and saved Israel through the plagues… they had to go through them, but they were safe. There are countless stories in the bible of turning away from God and His wrath poured out. As individuals, and His children, we can have joy and peace because His spirit lives inside of us. So, we live in the world but are not a part of the world. The bible also says not to worry when there are wars or rumors of wars… these things must come to pass before He comes back for us and it’s going to get bad.
Read 1 Samuel 8. They wanted a king to rule over them and God wanted to be their King. He let them have what they wanted and he ruled over them harshly. When asked God said I gave you what you wanted.
I am re-reading Kings now and when I get down about what’s going on I read Revelation 22… He will wipe away every tear.
I also love reading about Jesus triumphant return… he who rides on a white horse is called faithful and true… King of Kings and Lord of Lords. <3
Thank hog for sharing your heart on this. You’re right. We need to live in the world but not be of the world. Amen – that will be the day when every knee shall bow! Hugs and love xox
I believe all this is true. While we could level our eyes on those who have no faith and say it’s all their fault but the bible alludes to the fact that those who profess him but don’t follow him are like salt, but salt that loses its flavor will be thrown out. This applies to those engaged in the exact same sins as the non believers while condemning the non believers. This applies to those who live after works with out love. Jeremiah is a great book because it is a exact picture of America today. We are sexuality immoral both as believers and non believers. We use capitalism as a means to take more than we should. Babylonian commercialism is what Israel brought back from captivity. We mistreat people in need. Yes there are lazy people but there are truly people that have been hurt by social inequality. We mistreat the sojourners from other countries. Yes we need borders but we need both law and compassion. We miss treat the fatherless. Who are the fatherless? Our history with black people and laws have left many fatherless through incarceration for laws that were not equally dealt out in the past and arguably the present. What God showed through israel was that righteousness could not be achieved by criminalizing sin. It was arrogance to think perhaps we could do better than Israel. Through Jesus we see salvation has to be a individual choice, and that our light would shine if we truly followed Jesus as he taught us to through himself and his apostles.
Thank you so much Jimmy for sharing your thoughts on this! You’re so right – we need to shine our light and let His light shine through us!!! Hugs and love xox
Adding my prayers to yours! I know He is at work. I pray we will see a great awakening. I don’t know how else we make it through all the hurt, brokenness, bitterness, coldness and corruption. So, I’m keeping hope! Help us, Lord! More of You!
Thank you so much! Amen indeed. He is working and His plan is always perfect. Hugs and love xox
Also: “We’ve replaced striving to be right with God, with virtue signaling to be right in the eyes of others.
Why is it more socially acceptable to recite the lyrics to “WAP,” than it is to pray in public, or say “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance?” — some of my favorite! Your writing and heart is a blessing! Thank you!
Oh I’m so glad those hit home with you!!!! 🙂 thanks again friend x
What an expressive post. It reminded me of a similar day that became a poem and a song.
“I don’t know where to find Him…Where does GOD hide?
When I need Him here beside me…to dry the tears that I cry
Can I find Him in my heart?…Can I find Him in my prayers?
Can I find Him in my life? Can I find Him anywhere?
I don’t know where to find Him..When all seems lost
When the light is filled with darkness.. when the shadows hide the cross
Can I find Him in my heart?…Can I find Him in my prayers?
Can I find Him in my life? Can I find Him anywhere?
Somewhere deep inside my spirit..I Know GOD lingers there
He’s never hiding when I need Him…Jesus answers every prayer.
I can find Him in my heart…I can find Him in my prayers
I can find Him in my life…For His light shines everywhere…..
Your journey has been amazing. You are a special gift to so many of your followers. Have a great day.
Thank you so much Dennis. Oh wow what a beautiful poem and song! That is so powerful. Thank you for such encouraging words. It really means a lot! Hugs and love xox
Interesting thoughts, I am not a believer in what you would call God, I did have a religious up bring but ‘lost ‘ my faith in my late teens. In the last 40 years I have been drawn towards thinking/feeling closer to nature and universe than I ever did to God. When you pray to God, I ask the universe and Mother Nature ‘why’
As for what is happening now and what as happen over the last few years I think it is fair to say that mankind as had it’s time, this is the end, the world will be reborn and nature will start again.
Bright Blessings to you
Thanks so much Tilly for sharing your thoughts. I definitely feel spiritually alive in nature! Mankind definitely has some shaping up to do, that’s for sure! Glad you stopped by 🙂 Hugs and love xox
[…] Where is God? — BeautyBeyondBones […]
Thank you for the link up. Hugs and love xox
Fantastic Caralyn! In my opinion, this is one of your best posts ever. Well done and thank you.
Reid
Thank you so much Reid! Gosh I’m so touched! I’m glad it hit home with you 🙂 have a wonderful Sunday! Hugs and love xox
I’ve had the same thoughts. I wasn’t praying about all of this going on for awhile, and part of the reason was that I almost felt like we deserved it. I don’t know if I’d say we’re the modern-day Israel, but even in the Old Testament, God still punished nations outside of Israel when they went too far.
But that doesn’t mean we don’t pray. I love how you ended that. Of course, we still pray. God is merciful and loving, slow to anger and abounding in peace. So I’m praying with you, but if we are the “Roman Empire in decline”, I’ll be sad, but I’ll get it.
You’re still a captivating writer. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Cath, thank you for sharing your thoughts on this. You’re right – we still pray. Because I fully believe there is power in prayer! So glad you stopped by. Hugs and love xox
James 4: 8, is appropriate for us all at this time. Is God withdrawing? Never! Has he sent a plague among his people as he did with Israel to wake them up? No.
The times we live in and the civil and social unrest, the poisonous air we breath with hate being spewed around every corner isn’t God in action.
There are three things to remember:
1. 1 John 5: 19 “We are well aware that we are from God, and the whole world is in the power of the Evil One.” The evil or wicked one render here is not God.
With the world under that power and influence we need to apply James 4:8. because we believe Job 34:12 “Be sure of it: God never does wrong, Shaddai does not pervert what is just.”
2 1 John 4: 8 “Whoever fails to love does not know God, because God is love.” then read verse 9 – 10 it is the assurance of life, then read verses 16 to 19. We have no reason to fear. Why? because all things are explained. What does the future hold?
3 Luke 21: 9 “And when you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be terrified, for this is something that must happen first, but the end will not come at once.’ 10 Then he said to them, ‘Nation will fight against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes and plagues and famines in various places; there will be terrifying events and great signs from heaven.”
These are signs which culminate in this point made by Jesus: 28 When these things begin to take place, stand erect, hold your heads high, because your liberation is near at hand.’
This isn’t a time for Christians to despair, it is time to share faith, read the bible, find the truth in God’s Word.
2 Peter 3: 9 offers clarity on on our position – why we are living through these times, God wants millions to be saved, no correct that billions. So for those who genuinely want answers we find that God is not far from us and we experience his mercy as we do not attribute suffering to God but recognise that he remains close to each of us.
One last thought, if you believe in the battle between good and evil, evil will set out to make you feel that good does not care or is powerless to meet our needs. This is a lie! May the God of Truth and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, King of God’s Messianic Kingdom grant you the peace and understanding you seek.
I have been silent for a while but enjoy reading your posts, you express your concerns so well.
MPT
Thank you MPT for sharing g these powerful verses and for your encouraging words. I agree – our Father will always grant us peace and understanding. I have total trust in that! Hugs and love xox
We desire so much to find purpose, “Why is this happening to me, to this city, this state, this country, or this world?” If we could think like God then we would be in fact god. We can not and at times all that is required of us is faith, a trust that God works all things out for our very best good. You may be creating that list of the many things that 2020 has brought our way and ask, “how does this bring about something good?”
We all remember that story of Adam and Eve, it brought death not only to their spirit but also to this planet. And this planet has seen many dark days and each darkness can be connected to a revival in faith. God may be dealing with this world but He is shaken His people awake. My favorite moment in your blog is that after your walked in the hurricane force winds, you went home and opened God’s Word.
In 1st Kings 19: 11-13 says this – 11 The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
God is whispering to His people so we will stop and focus on this question, “What are you doing?” I asked myself this question all year. What is the foundation of what I believe and how do I speak to others to bring balance while shining God’s love through all that is happening. Only God! He utilizes the skill set He created us with. If we will humble ourselves and trust in Him, we can find our purpose.
Serve God, First!
Thanks so much S for sharing your thoughts on this. Yes! Serve Him first! Great example. Hugs and love xox
So He said, “Go forth and stand on the mountain before the LORD.” And behold, the LORD was passing by! And a great and strong wind was rending the mountains and breaking in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a sound of a gentle blowing. – 1 Kings 19:11-12 (NASB)
God is in the gentle breeze, touching us in ways that are not always evident in the gale force winds, in the storms. Be still and know He is God. Listen for the gentle voice of God and His calling on your life. Do not let the storms drown out His message to you.
Thanks so much CG for your thoughts on this. I agree! Be still and know He is God! Hugs and love xox
What service did Trimp attend today? Our Lady of the Golf Course
I do not know. I attended church online due to covid reasons. Perhaps he did too. And plus – who am I to judge? Thanks Scott for stopping by.