There is a point in which we come to realize that no matter what a person believes, we all believe in something. Each individual is created with an innate sense that God exists. Because each of us has a void in our hearts if it is not filled with Him, it is commonplace for people to search to find a way to fill that vacancy. However, there is nothing besides Christ that can fill that empty place. And when salvation is attained, there is a newfound joy and sense of hope that was not formerly there. Somedays, you feel extremely close to God and are convinced that nothing could sever the inseparable bond between you and the Father. Good times, though sometimes seemingly short-lived, are not all that is promised. It is assured we will face trials and tribulations. What hurts the most, though, are those rough patches in life where you question the validity of your relationship with Christ. During these times, you may find yourself asking,

"God, are you there? Do you even hear me?"

"If you do hear my prayers, why won't you at least speak to me?"

"What did I do to make you not care about me anymore?"

"Do you still love me?"

"Do you still want me to be yours, or am I too far gone for you to rescue me this time?"

Although these are ordinary questions to ask during a time in which the soul is struggling, Christ always follows through with answering these questions. The answers are all in the Book He has given us. All we have to do is open it and allow Him to speak. But even after you become reassured that God has not forsaken you, your spirit may still be in a state of doubt. This is likely because you have begun to feel empty again. It is undoubtedly a frightening feeling, and it may cause you to feel uncertain about where you stand in the midst of all the wrong you have done. Did God just turn His back and leave even though He promised not to? Everyone else may prove to be good at being human because of broken promises, but God is different in that He has never and will never make a promise He can't keep. Even when you are in a state of uncertainty and feel like He isn't there, He is beside you. His arms are outstretched, waiting for you to turn and run to embrace Him. Your mind has simply been too distracted by other things to notice. We all feel hopeless, lost, and empty sometimes, but it is not a permanent feeling due to the joy and hope Christ has given us. Eventually, you come out of the valley and feel close to Him again.

It is undoubtedly tough to endure a time in which you feel disconnected from the Father. You may find yourself barely able to keep your head above the water, in fear that you may end up drowning because you aren't strong enough to bear it on your own. In times of desperation, we must realize that it is okay to cry out. It doesn't mean that we are not a strong person if we admit we are dependent. This simply proves that we recognize that God is who He says He is, and we cannot make it through life without Him. Yes, emptiness leaves you feeling hopeless and distressed. And yes, it is possible to feel that way even after you receive Christ as your Savior.

Life is not easy, and sometimes it will be difficult to find joy in the midst of suffering. But God can take the empty parts of you and fill it with Himself. Whatever you find valuable in life, or whatever you love so much it becomes idolized, He is so much more. God wants to fill the void, have your utmost trust, and be your best friend. All that's left for you to do is realize that He is with you even when you cannot feel Him or hear Him speak. He has made it so clear that He loves you and treasures the person He created you to be. And although you will face tumultuous situations, there is never a time where you should feel unfit to cry out to the One who knows every little thing about you. Allow Him to fill the emptiness in your heart and take away the doubt in your spirit. He knows you and still loves you more than anyone ever could. He chose you and molded you to be who you are today. And He wants you to make the next move by surrendering and running to embrace He who waits for His chosen ones.