The Dark Hour

It is in times of suffering or the greatest difficulty that we often experience the greatest doubts and ask the hardest questions. When everything has fallen apart, the question that often arises in a person's heart is, "Where is God?" Many spectators or adversaries may even assume "God has abandoned you."   

This was the context of David's prayer in Psalms 3. David's son Absalom had slowly stolen the hearts of the people of Israel over several years. In 2 Samuel 15-17, Absalom plots with leaders in David's government, and they launch a coup attempt to overthrow and even assassinate King David. There is no doubt that this was a dark hour for David.  

As Absalom's plot unfolded and the rebellion was rapidly growing, people began to say, "There is no salvation for [David] in God"(Psalm 2:2). The accusation was that if God's hand was still on David, he would not be experiencing these problems. David's troubles are a sign that God is not with Him. 

This raises the question for us. If the circumstances of your life are falling apart, does that mean God has abandoned you? Where is God in your darkest hour?