Where is the Presence of God in these Times?

“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:14 NIV)

For the past few days, it has been on the news, about a gunman, Seung-Hui Cho, who shot and killed himself after opening fire in a dorm and classroom at Virginia Tech on Monday 16 April, killing at least 32 others in what is said to be the deadliest shooting spree in U.S. history. Until now, it is not fully clear exactly what set him off to carryout such a dastardly act. A few psychiatrists have tried to analyze Cho’s mental state which caused him to go on the rampage. However, one thing is very obvious; many people, because of this incidence now live in fear of the unknown. Who would have suspected an innocent looking guy like Cho, of carrying out such an act? There really is no safe place in this world except under God's grace. For the victims, we can only pray comfort and strength....this can happen to anyone.

The Virginia Tech shooting is just one of the many of such incidents occurring all over the world today. They may take different forms, yet they all leave the same impression in the hearts of people - fear. Consequently, there is a general trap of the fear of the unknown holding many people bound, as insecurity gains more grounds in the hearts of individuals and nations world over. If it is not fear of terrorist attacks, then it is fear of natural disasters or war, or political crises leading to violence and bloodshed, and so the list goes on.

The troubles of the time we live in have left many people questioning, the presence of God in the world today. Could it be that God has suddenly slept off, or lost control of His creation, and allowed evil to increase?

As children of God, we have many promises from God in the Bible, speaking of His presence with us. The Psalmist wrote, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). This knowledge caused him to proclaim, “Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea” (Psalm 46:2). When we realize all that God’s presence in our life entails, we will be protected from all fear and anxiety.

God promises, “I will never leave you, nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Yes, His presence is with us always. This enables us to say, “The Lord is my Helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13:6). When Jesus gave us His Great Commission, He concluded with these words: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). The glorious truth is that no matter what happens, God will be with us always. Halleluyah!

And so we can joyfully say, thank you Lord for always being there for us. Amen!