7 Scriptures for When God Feels Far Away

This is the picture that comes to mind when I think of this scripture.

God is so ineffably powerful, strong, and mighty. But he chooses to be so gentle with us instead–holding us close to his heart and leading us at the pace we can go.

When God feels far away, maybe replace that thought with this image instead: God holding you so dearly and tenderly, right next to his slow, steady, beating heart.

As much as parents love their kids, they can still (understandably) roll their eyes when their toddler is crying about having to put on pants for the thousandth time or something equally ridiculous.

But that’s not how God treats our tears. In his infinite patience, each of our tears is precious to him. So precious that it’s like he collects our tears in a bottle and records the reason for each one!

How vast and magnificent is the love of our Father to care about us deeply enough to do that? Even when God feels distant, he is right there–close enough to scoop the tears falling from our cheeks and know exactly what is causing them.

There is something so sacred about acknowledging that God is in our midst. Our very midst!

The Blue Letter Bible defines the Hebrew word for midst as the inner part, among, as the seat of thought and emotion, and the middle of. This means where we are, in our deepest, most inward parts, there is God also.

And not only does this scripture assure us of how close God is–he is rejoicing over us with loud singing!

Whatever situation you are in, God is there also. And he is there to quiet you with his love.

Sometimes I joke about wanting to hire a nanny…For myself. Someone that can be responsible for me so that I don’t have to be. Being a human comes with so much to do!

Of course, this scripture isn’t talking about eschewing responsibilities–but it does reassure us that we’re not the only ones looking out for ourselves. Jesus is our Shepherd, the Overseer of our very souls! He is caring for us, working for us, and presenting us with opportunities to grow.

This job would be impossible if Jesus were far away from us, only checking in every now and then. Being a Shepherd and Overseer is a 24/7, round-the-clock responsibility. And he’s still there during the tough times, too.

Jesus is overseeing you right now, at this moment, as you are reading this. Whatever situation you are in, whatever emotion you are feeling, whatever decisions you have to make–Jesus is right there, overseeing it all, making sure that you are safe and taken care of because he loves you so.

Keep these scriptures in a journal, on your phone, or anywhere that you can easily access them whenever you need them.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Sinenkiy 

The views expressed in this commentary do not necessarily reflect those of CrosswalkHeadlines.

Kelly-Jayne McGlynn is a former editor at Crosswalk.com. She sees the act of expression, whether through writing or art, as a way to co-create with God and experience him deeper. Check out her handmade earrings on Instagram and her website for more of her thoughts on connecting with God through creative endeavors.