Relationship with God

My question is more of a concern, I guess. In the last six years or so a lot of things have happened in my marriage as well as losing a parent I helped care for. I have fallen away from church. I used to feel a draw to God, but lately I don't feel a whole lot. My husband is handicapped and real negative about things. My Mom and the rest of my family fell apart when Dad died. It was like he was the glue that kept everything together. My question is: I am scared that maybe God has given up on me because of the negative path I have been following. I get angry so easily and just don't want to do much anymore. I am seeing a doctor for depression. But I am more concerned with my relationship with God. I want to make him happy and live my life for him, but life just seems to keep getting in the way of that. Help me if you can. Thanks.

You are definitely facing some challenges, and I am glad to read that you are seeking and receiving medical care. I am also happy to see that you recognize what is most important in life: your relationship with God.

When it comes to your thoughts of wanting to make God happy, I can understand that. The apostle Paul wrote: “So we make it our goal to please him [God]” (2 Corinthians 5:9). As redeemed children of God, we strive to live lives that reflect our gratitude to God for his forgiving love. We try to please him, instead of pleasing our sinful nature or Satan.

That being said, let me remind you to keep that goal of pleasing God in perspective. As Christian, God is already pleased with you. As a baptized child of God, the Lord looks at you and says, “You are my child. You are precious in my sight.” You are important to God because he made you and redeemed you. If you ever doubt that, think of the meaning of your baptism.

When you think of “God giving up on you,” keep in mind what God says to you in his word: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). If you have distanced yourself from God by not worshiping him in church or reading your Bible at home, confess those sins to him. God will not ignore that confession (John 6:37; 1 John 1:9). Through his gospel in word and sacrament he will give you the good news of his love and forgiveness.

You would benefit from speaking to one of our pastors. Don’t hesitate contacting them, even with your admission of “having fallen away from church.” They would be glad to help you reconnect. God bless you and your family.