Day 11 When God Feels Far and the Wicked Seem to Win

Psalm 10 gives voice to confusion, frustration, and grief when evil appears unchecked.

DEVOTIONALS 2026

1/12/20261 min read

Sunday, January 11, 2026

When God Feels Far and the Wicked Seem to Win

by Torrie Slaughter

Psalm 10 begins with a question many believers hesitate to ask: “Why do You stand far off, O Lord?” This psalm gives voice to confusion, frustration, and grief when evil appears unchecked. Rather than pretending faith has no questions, Scripture invites honesty before God.

The word “arise” (Hebrew: qum) appears as a plea for God to stand up and take action. It carries the sense of awakening power already present—not creating something new, but activating what has been there all along.

Silence from God can feel like abandonment, especially when wrongdoers prosper. Psalm 10 heals our theology by reminding us that God’s apparent distance does not mean disinterest. He is attentive, observant, and just.

Prayer:
Jehovah Rophe, when You feel far away, help me trust what I cannot yet see. Heal the discouragement that grows when justice seems delayed. Arise in Your power and restore my confidence in Your righteousness. I place my questions, fears, and hope in Your capable hands. Amen