First Time Here

Hi All:

My name is Doreen (though it's Dorene on here). I am 58 and have recently returned to the church after 45 years.
I am going through some major financial issues at the moment and am starting to believe God doesn't exist. I went through the bulk of my life without turning to God and things always seemed to work out. Someone told me that was the devil's way of keeping me away from God. I am on the verge of losing where I rent and my car as I can't make the payments. I have been out of work and I have been unsuccessful in finding a new job. This is the first week I haven't gone to church - I was going every day and even started bible study which I skipped this week also. I was also reading the bible every day, but stopped that too. I am not here to be judged but to seek hope that I am wrong. But, I see what is going on in the world today and how so many people have suffered due to the financial situation caused by our government. I have a hard time believing God would not shelter the people who follow him. I have also read where God puts those who do not believe before those who do. Sounds like our government - lets take care those who refuse to take of themselves and lets continue to take away from those who do not need us. Thank you for listening.

12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And,

“If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”[a]
19 So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

1 Peter 4: 12-19

I have said a prayer for this most difficult situation that you are in. Hopefully, the members of this site will be able to provide emotional and spiritual support. God does indeed exist but there are times that it is very hard to understand why He allows His children to undergo various trials and tribulations. I don't believe that this is the devil's way of keeping you away from God but rather God's way of drawing you closer to Him. Glad to have you join our family. This is a wonderful community. Welcome to CC.