Today I want to talk about the presence of God. What is this mysterious place? How can I find it? Should I want to be found there and if so why? I hope to give clarity on this topic.
When I think of the presence of God I think of the scripture that shares with us, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:11) I find that God offers me joy and by definition in the midst of uncertainty; which is a relatable and continuous characteristic of life.
Things I have found in the presence of God include but are not limited to joy, refreshment for my mind, mood and attitude; and humility. The presence of God is wherever God is, and that’s everywhere. No it is not a geographical location but one that is intangible. We find it as we abide in Jesus. To abide means remain stable or fixed in a state, a love that abided with him all his days. 2 : to continue in a place : sojourn will abide in the house of the Lord. abide by. 1 : to conform to abide by the rules. 2 : to accept without objection : to acquiesce in will abide by your decision.
I want to just focus on the first 2 definitions; to be fixed in the state of love and to continue in a place. The word says “4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you……9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15: 4, 9-12) So here we learn to remain in love is to obey God and his commands; and specifically His command to love each other. Going back to our definition to abide; to continue in a place, that place is love and obedience. If we live by Jesus Christ commands we remain in His presence; we remain in Him.
Why would we want to be there in His presence? Well it is where you will find evidence of the existence of Jesus. Let me explain. God promised when he ascended to heaven to leave His Holy Spirit. As it is written [Jesus speaking] “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.” (John 15: 26) If you are seeking to know God, you sit in his presence. Also scripture tells us it is where we find rest for our spirits; “And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” ( Exodus 33:14)
When life is overwhelming run to the presence of God it is where you can recharge, reset, and refocus. Seek to Live a life in God’s presence; you will find peace and clarity of mind.
Remember we all can Keep Life’s Savor by living in the presence of God.