The Sustaining Presence of God

Where were you when you first became aware of the presence and power of God? Was it communicated by a parent or in worship or Bible study? It might have been in some dreadful, horrible place where, in a moment of crisis, there came a realization that you were not alone, but that God was there even in that despicable place.

God’s name, Jehovah-Shammah, means “the Lord is there”. Jacob discovered God's presence when he was running for his life. He saw God's presence in a dream as angels descended and ascended on a stairway. Here he made a commitment to God, but it took decades for him change and mature. Yet, God’s presence remained constant.

Jehovah Shammah is present in the darkest, most frightening moments. The Apostle John would declare, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory.” He’s there for you in each moment, and you can count on his presence for assurance and encouragement, however the ‘moment’ is defined.                          

____________

So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.

~Deuteronomy 31:6 New Living Translation

 

And I will make my home among them. Yes, I will be their God and they shall be my people.

~Ezekiel 37:27 The Living Bible 

____________

Subscribe to the Attitudes Answers podcast on your favorite podcast platform to hear this and other 2-minute features 3 days every week.

A Bridge to Better Judgment and Choices

One benefit of growing older is possessing wisdom that builds a bridge to better judgment and choices. Pressing onward toward the mark of the high calling in Christ Jesus becomes more urgent. Those who love God can realize he has been continuously present throughout life’s struggles as well as the joyful, happy days.

Some mistakenly think God is present only for unique events when his power is witnessed touching the lives of worshipers. God is constantly present, for his name is Jehovah-Shammah, “the Lord is there”. In Exodus 23:20 God told Moses, "See, I am sending my angel ahead of you to guard you and bring you to the place I have prepared."

In Psalm 139 David asked God, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?" It's awesome to realize that God is everywhere continuously. God is always there, so let this fact be a source of comfort and assurance for whatever you’re facing at this moment.                            

__________ 

Now we can come fearlessly right into God’s presence, assured of his glad welcome when we come with Christ and trust in him.

~Ephesians 3:12 The Living Bible

__________

Subscribe to the Attitudes Answers podcast on your favorite podcast platform to hear this and other 2-minute features 3 days every week.