No More Excuses - Just His Presence

Thursday, November 6th
No More Excuses—Just His Presence
By: Sheila Sonon

There are days when I wonder where God is—when my prayers feel like they hit the ceiling and bounce right back. Truthfully, I know the issue isn’t Him; it’s me. I rush through my days from the 4 a.m. alarm to bedtime—teaching, working, doing laundry, eating on the go, heading to worship rehearsal, knitting class, or spending precious time with my children. It’s a full, blessed life. But as I write this, I realize I’m also listing excuses.

I tell myself I’ll spend quiet time with God tomorrow. Yet the truth is, I’m often afraid of what He’ll lay on my heart. Afraid He’s disappointed, that I’ve missed moments to serve well, or chosen comfort over calling. But Isaiah 41:10 reminds me that no matter how far I drift, God never moves away:

“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
 Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
 I will strengthen you and help you.
 I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10

There’s nowhere I can go that He isn’t already waiting—hand extended, heart open. That truth both humbles and comforts me.

So I’m trading my excuses for small steps. The time I waste scrolling or streaming can become sacred minutes with Him. Just a few moments each day to sit, breathe, and hand over my fears, worries, and anxious thoughts. The challenge, of course, is to leave them there—to not take them back.

God’s presence isn’t earned; it’s promised. Whether in chaos or calm, He’s near. Even when I’m too distracted to feel Him, His right hand still holds me fast. What a beautiful truth—no matter where I go or how far I wander, I am never beyond His reach.