I’ve had lots of conversations with people about the promises of God. I’ve given and received many prophetic words, read promises in scripture, and heard them in sermons. One thing I’ve noticed, and it grieves my heart, is how many people begin to value the gifts of God over God Himself.
Isn’t that a tragedy?
Can you imagine how you would feel if your family began to value you only for the presents you brought them? Imagine if every time you saw them or talked on the phone, their first words were demands for gifts.
I wonder how often all of our conversations with God are just like this.
This is a very convicting thought, even to me. It stings a little.
In the same way that God doesn’t value our works over our hearts, we should value Him over what He brings to us.
His word is not more valuable than Himself.
If we are honest, I believe we would all admit that at times we want from God more than we want Him.
It’s a sad fact. But we can always change. It’s never too late to recalibrate our relationship with God.
I encourage you to begin to notice how you approach God. Do you first recite your laundry list of requests, or do you first come to Him and simply sit in His presence and wait? Do you let Him know how thankful you are and then after sitting and thanking…present your requests?
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7
It’s good and right to bring your requests to God…it’s just also good to remember to come before Him with thanksgiving. To come to Him simply to be with Him. To spend time with Him, not just to get things, but to simply be.
I encourage you to take some time right now and sit in His Presence. Invite Him to come and then just be still and quiet. Let Him have the opportunity to speak first. Let Him have the opportunity to lead the conversation. You never know what you may learn during this time. Revelation is likely to come. Peace will surely be there. Fullness will be the result. Then come to Him with all your needs and trust Him to provide.
I pray heaps of blessings over you day!
365 Days in the Presence 