“O LORD, why do you stand so far away? Why do you hide when I am in trouble?” Psalm 10:1
Have you ever looked around at the world and wondered where God is? When those who mock Him seem to prosper while you struggle? The psalmist felt this way, too.
In Psalm 10, we encounter raw honesty. The writer doesn’t hide his feelings but comes right out and asks what many of us fear to voice: “God, where are You when I need You most?”
The psalmist describes arrogant people who oppress the poor and boast they’ll never face consequences. These people live as if God doesn’t exist—and sometimes it looks like they’re getting away with it. No divine intervention. Just success after success while God’s people suffer.
This distance can feel physical, as if God is far beyond the reach of the stars. It can also be emotionally painful—that sense of closeness we once felt has evaporated. Or it can be spiritual—a sense of separation that makes our prayers feel like they’re hitting the ceiling.
But notice what the psalmist does with these feelings. He doesn’t walk away from God or stop praying. Instead, he pours out his honest feelings to God. There’s something profound about taking your doubts directly to the One you’re doubting.
When we can’t see God working, questioning where He’s at isn’t weakness—it’s being authentic with Him. God can handle our questions, our doubts, and even our anger. He’d rather have our honest cries than our polished pretense.
While it may seem that God is distant when the wicked prosper, He never abandons those who trust in Him. God’s sovereignty means He is always in control, even when we cannot see what He is doing. One day, everyone—including those who seem to escape justice now—will stand before Him.
When you notice injustice or see someone who seems to reject God thriving this week, try a “nevertheless prayer.” Start by honestly expressing your feelings: “God, it seems like You’re far away when…” Then add, “nevertheless, I know that…” followed by a truth about God you’re clinging to. This simple practice grounds your heart in truth while honoring your genuine feelings.
REFLECT
Think about a situation where God seems distant. What truth about His character can become your “nevertheless” statement today?
