Biblical Answer

The feeling of God being far away can be attributed to several reasons. Firstly, it can be due to sin that separates us from God. As Isaiah 59:1-2 states, "The Lord looks down from heaven on the children of man, to see if there is any who understands, who seeks after God. They have all turned aside, together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one." This verse highlights the moral distance between God and humanity due to sin. Secondly, our understanding of reality may need to change, and we tend to dismiss ideas that would require such a change. A profound change of our understanding of reality is necessary to grasp the concept of God being both near and far. Lastly, our perception of God's presence can be influenced by our emotions and experiences. When we are in a state of depression or condemnation, we may feel God is not present.

Another reason for feeling God's absence is the epistemic distance or divine hiddenness. This concept suggests that if God's existence were unmistakable, many people would abstain from desires that contradict God's will. In other words, if God's presence were too obvious, we might become aware of our own sinfulness and feel uncomfortable. This hiddenness allows us to maintain a sense of autonomy and independence. However, this hiddenness can also lead to feelings of abandonment or rejection when we experience difficulties or challenges in life.

The Bible teaches that God is always present, but we may not be aware of it. Psalm 139:1-4 states, "O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether." This verse highlights God's omnipresence and omniscience. We can have faith that God is always present, even when we do not feel it. Ambrosiaster comments, "God is still present, but because we cannot see Him, we think He is far away." This quote emphasizes the importance of faith in our relationship with God. We must trust that God is always present, even when we do not feel it. Advertisement

The final answer is:There is no final answer to this question as it is a complex and deeply personal issue. However, the provided information suggests that the feeling of God being far away can be attributed to several reasons, including sin, a need for a profound change in our understanding of reality, and our perception of God's presence influenced by our emotions and experiences. The Bible teaches that God is always present, but we may not be aware of it, and faith is essential in our relationship with God.