As an extension of yesterday’s devotional, I want to bring up another key to a deeper relationship with Jesus…being present in His presence.
I know every one of us knows what it’s like to be somewhere, and not really be there. Distracted, rushed, insecure…whatever it is…a lot of things can cause us to not be truly present for God. But is there any one we should be more present for than God?
The answer is obvious. God deserves our presence.
I wonder what would happen if we all began to truly be present with God? What if we purposefully gave God even 20 minutes of truly being present each day? Imagine how transformed our lives would be…imagine how much wisdom we would receive…imagine knowing God’s heart better?
Now, more than ever, we should desire to live present in His presence. The world is quickly changing, and we need to stay in Him.
How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who fear You, which You bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in You. In the shelter of Your presence, You hide them from the intrigue of men; in Your dwelling You keep them safe from accusing tongues. Psalm 31:19-20
In this scripture we see that we are hidden from the intrigues of men when we are in His presence. That’s invaluable during this time of great deception and outright lying. The constant flow of false information can be overwhelming…but I have to tell you…I can see right through it. I know that’s because I stay in His presence.
Staying in His presence gives us access to knowing…you know what I mean? Have you ever just known the truth? Have you ever heard something and thought, “I just know something is not right with this.” This is an important voice to listen to…it’s the Holy Spirit.
Holy Spirit, our Helper and Counselor. Holy Spirit is so important to our lives. Learning to follow the lead of Holy Spirit has transformed my life. Years ago, I committed to listening to and responding to His voice…I have never regretted it and I have been living such an adventure.
Following God and staying in His presence brings so much excitement!
In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; God makes salvation its walls and ramparts. Open the gates that the righteous nation may enter, the nation that keeps faith. You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord is the Rock eternal. He humbles those who dwell on high, He lays the lofty city low; He levels it to the ground and casts it down to the dust. Feet trample it down- the feet of the oppressed, the footsteps of the poor. The path of the righteous is level; O upright One, You make the way of the righteous smooth. Yes, Lord, walking in the way of Your laws, we wait for You; Your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. My soul yearns for You in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for You. When Your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness. Though grace is shown to the wicked, they do not learn righteousness; even in a land of uprightness they go on doing evil and regard not the majesty of the Lord. O Lord, Your hand is lifted high. Isaiah 26:1-11a
365 Days in the Presence 