Experiencing God's Presence #173

Experiencing God's Presence #173

The Lord is near.

Philippians 4:5, NIV

The toddler was perfectly content playing with his toys until he looked around and couldn’t see his mother. He panicked. His eyes widened, his mouth contorted, and his soft whimper transitioned into a louder cry. Then, suddenly, he spotted Mom in the far corner. The fearful face relaxed, the wailing ceased, and he turned back to his toys as though nothing had happened.

Why does a child, without any other circumstances changing, feel comfortable with a parent in the room and afraid when no one seems near? Because nearness matters—especially in an uncertain mind that isn’t fully developed. And we, spiritual children who certainly aren’t fully developed, are exactly the same way. When we sense that God is with us, we can be perfectly content going about our business and handling life “on our own.” But when uncertainty strikes, we look around for reassurance, and if God seems to be absent, we panic. We need to remember that He’s still “in the room.”

Remind yourself that the Lord is near. (Though many interpreters apply this verse to His second coming, it just as easily refers to His current Presence.) Declare, even out loud if it helps, what you know to be true: that God is all around you, that He hasn’t left you or forsaken you. Then look around for the many evidences of His nearness—the provision He gave last month, or the blessing He bestowed last week, or the word He whispered last night. The more you notice His many personal touches, the more you realize how fully surrounded you are with His Presence. Then you can relax and be content in whatever you are doing.

Father, I need to know You are in the room. Help me notice all Your personal touches. May Your Spirit remind me how close You are. Let me be content knowing that I’m completely safe with You.