David Wilkerson addresses the struggles of feeling abandoned by God during difficult times, using Jacob's wrestling with the Lord as a poignant example. He emphasizes that even the most faithful and contrite believers can face trials and sorrows, questioning God's presence and promises. Wilkerson reminds us that God does not guarantee a life free from afflictions, but rather assures us of His deliverance through them. He highlights that both Jacob and Paul experienced significant hardships, yet God was with them, ultimately bringing them through their struggles. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness, even when circumstances seem dire.

Octavius Winslow emphasizes that the voice of the Lord continues to speak to believers through the clouds of their experiences, much like He did in the past with the cloudy pillar. He reassures that every cloud, whether it be of trial, adversity, bereavement, or depression, carries a message of divine love and presence. Winslow draws parallels between the struggles of Jesus and the believer's journey, highlighting that even in darkness, God's voice offers comfort and hope. He encourages believers to embrace their trials, trusting that they will find the Lord's presence and hear His voice of love amidst the clouds. Ultimately, the sermon calls for faith to anchor in God's promises, assuring that peace will follow the storms of life.

F.B. Meyer addresses the misconception that suffering indicates a lack of purity and uprightness before God, as suggested by Bildad in Job 8:6. He emphasizes that God's deliverance is not solely based on outward circumstances, and many faithful servants endure trials without any reflection on their righteousness. Meyer explains that adversity can strengthen our inner character and deepen our reliance on God, teaching us virtues that flourish in silence and sorrow. He reassures that despite our struggles, God is always attentive and present in our lives, working to make us partakers of His holiness.

Chuck Smith explores the profound question 'What doest thou here?' as God asks Elijah, who, after a great victory, finds himself in a desolate place of despair, depression, and fear. He emphasizes that even in our lowest moments, we must remember that God is with us and has a purpose for our lives, urging us not to let fear drive us away from our calling. Smith highlights that our greatest trials often follow our greatest victories, and we should not count ourselves out when God wants to count us in. Ultimately, God calls Elijah back to action, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.

C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound sorrow of Christ at Calvary, particularly during His anguished cry, 'My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me?' He emphasizes that while believers may feel a temporary absence of God's presence, Christ experienced a true forsaking, which brought Him unparalleled spiritual agony. Spurgeon encourages those in distress to remember that God's seeming absence does not equate to actual forsaking, as God remains sovereign and present even in darkness. The sermon highlights the depth of Christ's suffering and the significance of His sacrifice for humanity's redemption.

Chuck Smith discusses the life of Joseph in Genesis 39-41, emphasizing that despite the trials and tribulations he faced, including slavery and imprisonment, 'The LORD was with Joseph.' Smith highlights that being a Christian does not exempt one from difficulties, but God's presence provides strength and purpose through adversity. Joseph's integrity and faithfulness in the face of temptation serve as a model for believers, illustrating the importance of recognizing one's identity as a child of God. Ultimately, God's plan unfolds through Joseph's experiences, leading to his exaltation and the preservation of many during famine.