Presence
The definition for presence is, a person or thing that exists or is present in a place but is not seen.
Have you ever felt the presence of someone or something, but didn’t know what it was?
Many times we’re picking up on something but we don’t see it or realize what’s happening. Maybe we sense something is off and we leave or what we’re feeling makes us uncomfortable. Other times we”re sensing peace and joy and that makes us want more.
When this happens, it’s because we’re picking up the presence of something. We don’t see it, but it’s there.
If we stop and think about it, we’ve had this happen to us many times and each time, it caused us to respond. From Starbucks to H&M, to the bank, at a sports game, on the job and at church. Wherever we go, we can pick up the presence of something and it leaves an imprint on us.
This is a reality for us because we were made to feel the presence of the Lord. We were made to connect with God and have a living relationship with Him.
“Such people may seek you and worship in your presence, O God of Jacob.”
Psalms 24:6.
I love the definition for presence because it speaks to the reality of God in our lives.
Notice the definition again, a person or thing that exists or is present in a place but is not seen.
First, God is real and He’s alive.
Jesus rose from the dead as biblical truth and historical fact. Furthermore, He sent the Holy Spirit to be with us and to be in us.
God is alive and because He’s alive we can feel Him, know Him and be close to Him. Faith in God is a living reality and His presence is real around us.
Second, His presence is not seen but it’s here.
Just because we don’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there. His presence is around you right now and the truth is, we can connect to Jesus in a living way.
This definition speaks of faith and the reality of our living God. He’s here and ready to move in our lives.
However, it’s easy to focus on what we can see more than on what we don’t. This is a natural way for us to live but in Christ we’re called to live in a supernatural way.
“Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.”
Hebrews 11:11
Notice how this verse aligns with the definition for presence.
We don’t see it but the person is there.
Today, Jesus is with you. His presence is a reality and He’s able to do miracles in your life right now. This is not a someday God, this is a today God.
He’s able to move and He’s ready to be close to you.
So, this Christmas season, will you receive His presence?
His peace, joy, healing, life, deliverance, strength, miracles, support, purpose, hope, clarity and more are in His presence.
This is what we want and truly, Jesus is the greatest gift we could ever have.
“You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.”
Psalms 16:11
Here’s my encouragement to receive His presence.
- Listen to worship music in your house, at church or in the car and then sing along with it. One of the most significant ways to be in the presence of the Lord is by worshipping Him.
Make worshiping normal because God inhabits our praises (see Psalms 22:3).
2. Then, have time to pray. Make it a set time so you’re focused on it. You’ll be tempted to not do it and think you’re too busy. But keep going and make time. When you talk to Jesus, He comes close to you.
3. Lastly, watch the chosen series with your family holiday season. I have felt the presence of God in doing this as the story of Jesus comes to life.
This is a great way to be together as a family and to watch something that will bring the presence of God.
I believe this Christmas can be full of His presence.
This is what makes Christmas special, His presence.
Love you all and have a great week,
PD
