When God Feels Far, He's Still Close

Scripture:

"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?"

— Psalm 22:1 (NIV)

Devotional Thought:

Psalm 22 opens with a cry that feels all too familiar: “Where are You, God?” It’s a raw, honest, painful question — the kind we ask in moments of deep suffering, confusion, and silence. David is not hiding how he feels. He’s desperate, broken, and unsure if God is even listening.

But here’s the powerful truth: this cry is not the end of the story.

As the psalm continues, David begins to shift from despair to declaration. He recalls God’s past faithfulness, and even in his pain, he chooses to trust. This is the journey of Psalm 22 — from feeling abandoned to declaring praise.

Even more incredible, these same opening words — “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” — were spoken by Jesus on the cross (Matthew 27:46). In your darkest moments, Jesus understands. He doesn’t just sympathize — He lived it.

Psalm 22 reminds us:

It’s okay to feel broken.

It’s okay to ask hard questions.

But even when God feels far, He is still close.

And He will always turn pain into purpose.

Reflection:

Have I been honest with God about my pain and questions?

How can I remind myself of His faithfulness in the middle of what feels silent?

Prayer:

Lord, there are moments I feel abandoned or unheard. Help me to remember that even in silence, You are present. Teach me to trust You in the valley and to hold onto Your promises even when I can’t feel them. Thank You for being the God who understands and never lets go. Amen.