“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” (Exodus 33:14, CSB)
We are so used to being separated from God that we often fail to expect His presence in our lives. But if we are His, then God is with us. Jesus promised, “And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”” (Matthew 28:20b, CSB) How do we encounter His presence?
There are many ways that we encounter Christ’s presence in our lives. Prayer is the most obvious. That is especially so when we pour our struggles and pains to the Lord. We encounter Him in the pages of the Bible as the scriptures become alive in our hearts. We know He is present when our emotions change from anxious to peaceful. We know He is present when the way becomes clear through the Word. And He speaks if we listen. Sometimes, the language is an emotion such as compassion; sometimes, there is a nudge in our soul, sometimes through a verse that pops into our head, and sometimes we hear him in our thoughts.
I will admit that there are times when He seems closer than other times. That’s more my perception than reality. Earlier this year was stressful for us as we navigated the storm-tossed waters of my dad’s health (and passing) and conflicts at church. God’s voice was very present as I navigated those struggles. He led me to verses, guided my steps, corrected my thoughts, and provided peace, comfort, and understanding.
Here’s the important bit: He is there even if we don’t perceive Him. How do I know? Becasue, He promised it.
Other verses for this promise. (Compiled by David Wilkerson)
- Psalm 140:13
- 2 Chronicles 15:2
- Deuteronomy 31:8
- Matthew 28:20
- John 15:5
- John 14:23
- Joel 2:27
- Psalm 4:3
- Psalm 146:8
- Revelation 3:20
- Psalm 84:11
- Psalm 3:8
- Romans 8:14
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- Promises: Baptism with the Spirit - November 6, 2024
- Promises: Spiritual Growth - November 4, 2024
