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Psalm 18:11 – He shrouded himself in darkness, veiling his approach with dark rain clouds. (NLT)
I knew that it was there, but I couldn't see it.
When a new or full moon coincides with the moon's closest approach to the earth, it is called a supermoon. The last one for 2021 occurred on June 24th. Once before, when this happened, I wanted to see it, but couldn't. Several wildfires raged nearby. Each morning and evening brought a thick coat of smoke that veiled the sky, shutting out my ability to see the stars or the supermoon. Add to that the geography of our neighbourhood — tall trees and other nearby townhouses — and my wish to witness this marvel of nature went ungranted.
The psalmist was hounded by enemies, one in particular — a jealous king. But he wasn't worried. Using picturesque words to describe what was indescribable, he related how God came down to save him. Mounted on an angelic being, God soared on the wings of the wind with storm clouds beneath His feet. But He also shrouded Himself in darkness so His enemy couldn't see His approach.
God has been known to hide Himself. For thirteen years, Joseph must have wondered where He was. Joseph was hated by his jealous brothers, and then sold by them to a band of traders, who took him to Egypt and sold him again. Falsely accused of trying to rape Potiphar's wife, Joseph was cast into prison where he was promptly forgotten. For two more years, he languished in squalid conditions until God suddenly turned his situation around and promoted him to prime minister of Egypt.
Just because I don't see the hand of God in my situation doesn't mean that it isn't there. Jesus promised never to leave or forsake His children — and He doesn't. He is working behind the scenes, orchestrating the events of my life, thwarting the schemes of the enemy, and manufacturing good for me. My duty is simply to trust in His sovereignty, His unconditional love, and His power.
When God hides, I must wait for Him to show Himself. Biblical waiting is not inactivity. I continue to do the last thing that He told me to do until He opens another door and provides clear guidance for a change of direction.
God may appear to be hidden, but He is never absent from the details of our lives. Let's trust in that promise daily.
Prayer: Father, we thank You for always being near, whether we can perceive You or not. Amen.
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Amen Martin!
Amen, Martin. Thank you.
Lovely Martin. Thank you.
And so it is Martin! Blessings.
Thank you, Martin. Blessings to you and your family.
These are meaningful, heartwarming thoughts, Martin. Thank you.
Thank you, Martin, for sharing this encouraging devotional with us today!
It was much needed. Blessings.
Excellent meditation, really helpful when I feel “stuck”!
Bless you for this,
(BC Canada)
Helps me, Martin. Poetic and moving and direct, all these words encourage my faith and restore my hope and strength. Grateful.
Always enjoy your stories. It’s encouraging to know that God is working behind the scenes in my life. Thank you.
(NC)
“Just because I don’t see the hand of God in my situation does not mean it is not there!” Amen!
Thank you for this wonderful devotion, Martin.
Blessings.
Greetings Martin,
Thank you for another very meaningful devotional. We are so fortunate that God is always on duty and ever ready to hear our prayers and guide us through each day. Blessings for these special writings you do.
Good morning, Martin,
Great message to remind us all that God is always there whether we can perceive him or not.
Interesting analogy you made about the larger moon still being there even though you could not perceive it.
When you remind us of Joseph having to wait 13 years, it does help us to put our waits in perspective. It is always God’s timing not our own. May you have a great day as you wait for God’s wisdom to arrive. Blessings.
Martin,
Thanks for “encouraging” one of today’s readers.
… “Just because I don’t see the hand of God in my situation doesn’t mean that it isn’t there. …”
Am reminded of Frances Church’s editorial response to Virginia regarding her question, “Is there a Santa Claus?” “… Just because you can’t see fairies dancing on the lawn it doesn’t mean they are not there. …” The spirit of Christmas pervades a Season; the Providence of I Am may enshroud human perception.
(Ontario)
As I was reading this devotional I said to myself, this sure sounds like Martin. After reading so many of yours, a style and sound is there. You always give a blessing and I want to thank you. I will read this again tomorrow as my eyes are wearing out right now. It’s amazing how often in reading a variety of devotions they will be just what I needed right then. So keep up your inspired writings. Good night and have a blessed Sunday.
(Ca.)