Experiencing God's Presence #27

Experiencing God's Presence #27

The Spirit said to him, “Simon, three men are looking for you. So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them.”

Acts 10:19-20, NIV

God spoke to Cornelius through an angel, telling him to send for Simon Peter. Meanwhile, Peter saw a vision from God, telling him to receive the men sent from Cornelius and to go with them. This divine setup was an invitation to participate in God’s mission to the Gentiles, but it would never have happened if God hadn’t broken through some of Peter’s assumptions. Peter had to be made sensitive to the Spirit’s movement in a new direction.

One of the best ways to experience God’s Presence is to notice what He’s doing. When we notice His movements in people’s lives and are sensitive to whatever role He might want us to play, we can align ourselves with His work. We then experience His direction and His power as we partner with Him. We join with His Spirit to accomplish His mission. We step into the Presence for a purpose.

Watch how God is working on people’s hearts. Ask the Spirit to alert you to His purposes in drawing them to Himself. Notice the crises they are going through, the questions they are wrestling with, and the ways God is setting them up to encounter Him. Be available to encourage them, build them up, and point them to Him. If you notice the ways He is present in their lives and join Him there, He becomes more present in your life. The more closely you align with His plans, the more powerfully you experience Him.

Holy Spirit, make me sensitive to what You’re doing, not only in my life but also in the people around me. Open doors for me to step into the flow of Your work. Give me wisdom and restraint not to get in the way, but help me see Your invitation when You offer it. Please give me the privilege of seeing Your Presence change lives.