Drawing Near To God In Times Of Trouble Series

DRAWING NEAR TO GOD IN TIMES OF TROUBLE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 46:1

Supporting Texts: James 4:8, Psalm 34:17-19, Isaiah 43:2, Hebrews 4:16, 2 Chronicles 20:1-12

INTRODUCTION:

Times of trouble are inevitable in life. Whether in form of sickness, financial crisis, persecution, emotional pain, or spiritual battles, every believer will encounter storms at one point or another. However, the Word of God assures us that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble.

In such seasons, the temptation is often to run away from God, question His love, or try to resolve things with human strength. But the Scripture calls us to draw near to Him. It is in those very moments of pressure, confusion, and distress that we must seek His face more than ever before.

Drawing near to God in times of trouble is not just a survival strategy—it is an act of faith, a demonstration of trust in God's power, love, and sovereignty. He longs to comfort us, guide us, and deliver us when we come boldly into His presence.

1. GOD IS OUR REFUGE IN TROUBLE

a) God is a present help (Psalm 46:1)

He is not distant or unaware; He is near and ready to help.

b) Troubles do not disqualify us from His presence (Hebrews 4:16)

Instead, they give us greater access to the throne of grace.

c) God shields and shelters His people (Proverbs 18:10)

His name becomes our strong tower in the storm.

d) Our safety is in His presence, not in our strength (Psalm 91:1-2)

He is our hiding place when the battle rages.

Biblical Example: When King Jehoshaphat faced a great enemy, he ran to God in prayer and worship. God responded with a miraculous deliverance (2 Chronicles 20:1-30).

2. DRAWING NEAR BRINGS DIVINE COMFORT AND PEACE

a) God comforts the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18)

His nearness heals our emotional and spiritual wounds.

b) Peace is found in His presence (Isaiah 26:3)

No trouble can overwhelm the peace God gives.

c) The Holy Spirit is our Comforter (John 14:16)

He ministers peace and hope in the storm.

d) God speaks peace to those who seek Him (Psalm 85:8)

His voice silences fear and confusion.

Biblical Example: Hannah poured her soul before the Lord in her distress, and God comforted her and answered her cry (1 Samuel 1:10-20).

3. GOD DRAWS NEAR TO THOSE WHO DRAW NEAR TO HIM

a) Drawing near is a call and a command (James 4:8)

God desires our nearness even in pain.

b) We must seek Him with all our hearts (Jeremiah 29:13)

Sincere pursuit leads to divine encounters.

c) God never rejects the broken and contrite (Psalm 51:17)

He welcomes the weary and crushed in spirit.

d) His presence is guaranteed to the seeker (Matthew 7:7-8)

He responds to earnest seeking with open arms.

Biblical Example: David, during his times of trouble, continually sought the Lord and found strength, direction, and restoration (1 Samuel 30:6-8).

4. TRIALS DEEPEN OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

a) Trials refine and purify our faith (1 Peter 1:6-7)

They make us lean more on God than on self.

b) Trouble teaches us to pray earnestly (Romans 12:12)

In pain, we learn the power of persistent prayer.

c) Suffering builds intimacy with God (Philippians 3:10)

In fellowship with Christ’s sufferings, we know Him more.

d) God uses trouble to reveal His glory (John 11:4)

Our darkest hours often birth the greatest testimonies.

Biblical Example: Job remained faithful in his trials and, in the end, encountered God in a deeper way and received double restoration (Job 42:5-10).

5. GOD RESPONDS TO CRIES IN TROUBLE

a) He hears the cry of His children (Psalm 34:17)

God’s ears are open to the distressed.

b) He delivers from all troubles (Psalm 107:19-20)

His Word is a healing and delivering force.

c) God answers with wisdom and strategy (Jeremiah 33:3)

He gives solutions to impossible problems.

d) He strengthens and empowers us (Isaiah 40:29-31)

Even in trouble, we rise with new strength.

Biblical Example: The disciples cried out to Jesus during the storm, and He calmed the sea with a word (Mark 4:35-39).

CONCLUSION:

In times of trouble, the safest place is not in the arms of people or in the security of possessions—it is in the presence of the Almighty. Drawing near to God is our lifeline and our victory. Trouble may come, but it cannot consume us when we are hidden in Christ.

Let every trial drive you to your knees. Let every storm push you closer to your Saviour. He is not only willing to help—He is already waiting to respond to your cry.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, draw me closer to You in every season of life.

2. Let my faith not fail in the midst of trouble.