It seems to me that one of the most important Spiritual Exercises that we can engage in is to Spend Time in God’s Presence. When I am aware that I am connected to God, I have peace, hope and the spiritual strength that I need for whatever the day brings me.
For me, to be in God’s presence usually begins with intention. I make a decision deep in my spirit to become connected to God. I remind myself of his special qualities and of his faithfulness. I often remember the scripture “Draw near to God and he will draw near to you.” James 4:8 This is a promise that God gives us in his Word.
I frequently listen to music. Sometimes I turn on my iPod or tune in to a Christian radio station or pull up a website that plays soft Christian music so that it plays in the background. This is soothing to my soul and is a reminder of the loving nature of God. When I listen to this type of music I am inspired by the melodies.
Being in a beautiful place is another way in which I make a special connection with God. My wife and I are at a North Carolina beach for a week. As I am seated comfortably in a chair looking out at the ocean waves, I’m reminded of how God has gifted us with the beauty found in nature. I feel extra close to him in this setting.
And, maybe most of all, as I read scripture I am reminded of his nature and goodness and love. When I take time for an extended devotional and linger in the Bible I hear God speak to me softly through his Holy Spirit. He reminds me of his truths.
During these difficult times of high unemployment rates, financial stresses and other associated challenges, many people are looking for the inner strength needed to make it through the day, or the week. The best Source of strength I can think of is the strength that comes from being in the presence of God.
I hope that you are able to experience his presence regularly.
Scriptures Related to Spending Time in God’s Presence
“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.” Jeremiah 29:13-14
“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” Psalm 46:10
“The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14
“Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me.” Psalm 51:11
Questions to Reflect On
How are you intentional in being in God’s presense? Do you have a favorite location you go to in your home or outside your house or in your neighborhood to sit quietly?
Do you have a favorite devotional that you read that connects you to God?
Do you have any special music that you listen to that helps you to quiet your soul and opens your heart in a bigger way to the Lord?
Related Resources
A list of Scriptures on Strength from God
Read more about Spiritual Exercises for a Healthier Life
I think you mean James 4:8.
YES Stephanie. Thanks for catching that. Dale
Hello Dale, thanks for the ministry and may God bless you!
All blessings to you,
Wilber Wilber
(1) praying scriptures for your self. I want it.
(2) praying scriptures for your family.
– A PRAYER FROM JESUS –
This prayer is from Jesus that we may here from Him, that He may meet our needs. It only consist of three simple steps.
1) We need to read one scripture. This will focus us in the word that brings everlasting life.
2) Since this prayer is from Jesus we need to direct our prayer to Him personally. Too often Christian focus they’re prayer’s to G_D the father. Scripture proclaims that Jesus should be the focus of our prayer.
3) The simplest part of this Prayer is to ask Jesus one question. Please, all that is required for this question is to make it simple. Let Jesus Himself finish the question when He gives you that understanding through prayer.
The PRAYER
The scripture that is the focus of this prayer is “ACTS 2:38”. It’s not necessary to do any study into this scripture. Jesus Himself will bestow the understanding that will resonate in your heart.
The most important part of this prayer is that we need to direct our prayer directly to Jesus. If you normally would say Father in your prayer, change your focus from the Father to Christ Jesus by lifting Jesus name up every time you would normally use Father in your prayer.
Maybe the hardest part of this prayer is the question that we need to ask Jesus. For man as we are, always try to understand the question and may add many additional quires. The simplest question is all that is required.
Simply ask Jesus ‘WHY’