"Ever since I came to Pharaoh as your spokesman, he has been even more brutal to your people. And you have done nothing to rescue them!" Exodus 5:23

Did you just read the above verse the way I did? Did Moses just accuse God of doing nothing?

At this time in history and in this particular Bible story, Israel was enslaved to Egypt. God had asked Moses to go and bring His people out of slavery. To do this, Moses had to convince Pharaoh to let the people go. Moses was in negotiations with Pharaoh about letting the Israelites go into the wilderness to offer worship to God. At the time plagues were ravaging Egypt. Moses did everything that God had told him to do. He asked Pharaoh to let them go but Pharaoh made the work load of the Israelites even harder. Moses was very frustrated with God and the people were frustrated with Moses. God promised to rescue them but Israel was suffering even more.

It doesn't make sense to do what God is asking only to suffer more. Admittedly, I struggle to find an answer to this question at times. Let's take a moment to examine the Bible and find out what to do when it seems that God is nowhere to be found. First, we must recognize that there will always be opposition to God's plan. Satan doesn't want the people of God to succeed or be free. He will especially oppose those who are discovering who God truly is. This opposition is nothing like what we experience on the track, on the field, at home or in the office environment. It's much more devastating. In John it says:

• "The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My (Jesus) purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life." John 10:10

Satan wants nothing more that to cause people to doubt God. He wants people to doubt their dreams, hopes and even doubt that God really exists. So, when it seems that God is nowhere near, I must contend for His plan and never give up.

Second, I do know that God intends good for His people. God is for me! Who can stand against me? In James it says:

• "So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession." James 1:16-18

What are you facing today that makes you feel that God is nowhere to be found? What dream do you see fading that you are sure God promised? Instead of opposing God and questioning Him, recognize that He is for your success. YOU are His prized possession! Overcome the opposition (enemy) through prayer and persistence.

God is near!

Father, I believe Your plans for me are good. I stand against any plan from the enemy to bring failure, lack or defeat. I stand in victory today and know that You are near for my good. Thank You, Father! Amen!

- Article contributed by David Giles, ARCA Chaplain for Master's Men Racing.