In His Presence

First Published May 19, 2017

One of the greatest things I experience as a parent is being in the presence of my children.  I like basking in their energy, watching them in a fierce game of “Uno!”  They talk and it’s a joy to listen to them.  They sing and I’m lost in beautiful music.  I laugh at the funny stories and cry when they share sadness.  God also wants to be with his children.

Joshua 1:5b

Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you;

I will not fail you or forsake you.

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Growing up as a child, my father’s business demanded long hours of him away from home from Monday through Friday.  The same thing happened on the weekend, except us kids worked at the store too.  Just by being in Dad’s presence I learned about working with the public.   At six years old I learned how to make change. There is an art to stocking shelves.  I watched and learned. Some years later I learned about inventory and ordering products.  Even as a young teen I was taught about revenue and accounting.  Dad taught me to drive the truck and pick up wholesale orders. It was hard work, but I like being around my Dad, watching and learning.  God also wants us to watch and learn.

Proverbs 16:16

How much better it is to get wisdom than gold!

And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver.

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Well, if God wants to be in our lives and we want to be in God’s presence, how do we get this done?

1. Be in His presence through prayer. Matthew 6:9-13 (Lord’s Prayer)

2. Be in His Presence through corporate worship: 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (We are God’s temple)

3. Be in His Presence through word and deed. James 1:22, Matthew 5:16 (Doers versus Hearers).

Let’s enter into God’s presence, reflecting His Light of Hope!

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Dear Father God, Thank you for giving me the opportunity to watch and learn from my Dad. I also want to watch and learn from you, to be in your presence always.  Please help me to focus on doing this through prayer, worship, and action.  In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Copyright 2017 by Karen Vaughn