As the Israelites focused their minds and hearts on God's presence, their sense of security increased because they knew that God was listening to their prayers. They felt secure because it reminded them that God was their protector. Throughout the years, God had protected their king, who brought security and prosperity to their land. As the Israelites remembered to be in God's presence, their desire to sin decreased, and their hearts for righteousness increased by longing to be in the temple court. Psalm 84:10-12 says, "A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked. For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. O LORD of Heaven's Armies, what joy for those who trust in you."
Although the temple in Jerusalem no longer exists, God's presence is present in us through the Holy Spirit. The only difference today is that we are not always aware of it. When we are caught up with our daily responsibilities and the business and worries of life, we tend to forget that God's presence is in us. When we are caught up in our sins, we forget or ignore the presence of God in us. However, the Holy Spirit is always with us, a constant companion in our journey of faith. His presence is a source of reassurance and comfort. He is always there to remind us to trust God in all our circumstances and walk in God's ways. Interestingly, the Psalmist described God as the Lord of Heaven's Armies. Our God is like the Commander in Chief who leads His armies to protect and fight for us, and this is the reason the Psalmist said these words, "O LORD of Heaven's Armies, what joy for those who trust in you."
God is reminding us today that His presence is always with us because the Holy Spirit lives in us, but we need to be always aware of it. Listening to Christian music, online sermons, daily prayer, and reading the Word of God help us be aware of His presence. When we are aware of His presence, it comforts us that He is always for us and He is fighting for us. We can trust God more, and our desire to walk in God's way increases.
Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you.) What happens when I am always aware of God's presence? What are the ways that can help me to be aware of God's presence? What is God showing me in today's daily devotion?
Take a moment to write down all your worries today. Then, lift them up to God in prayer, surrendering them to His will and trusting in His guidance.
Prayer:
Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for your presence in my life. Please help me always to be aware of it. Please do not let the business and worries of life distract me from trusting in you. Please do not let my heart wander to sin and neglect you. Thank you that you are aware of my circumstances and that you are for me and fighting for me. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Comments