November Theme: Your Presence, O Lord
I am praying that the presence of The Lord will go with you in all the journey of your life in Jesus name.

Introduction: Do know that the presence of God in any man or woman’s life is sure source of defense?  Ps 46:1

Do we realize that there are so many blessings associated with God's presence with believers? Ps 16:11

In fact, the Lord has promised us that He will be with us always. He will be with us in all circumstances, pleasant and adverse. He will never leave us or forsake us as per His promise. We can surely depend on God's promises, even when we walk through the valley of shadow of death. "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me" (Psalms 23:4)

The presence of God will not dwell where there is apparent appearances of evil. Whenever gross evil exists, God will withdrawal His presence from such environment. But for the sake of His love, He will introduce His angel to go with you.

Prerequisites for God’s presence to go with us

Separation from pollution- exodus 33:7
Quality time with God- exodus 33: 8
Righteousness- exodus 33:9
Your conduct should lead to worship- Exodus 33:10
Revelation- willingness to know Him more- Exodus 33:11

Let us review some of the blessings associated with God's presence with us.

1. God's presence gives us rest (Exodus 33:14)

Moses was in the presence of God in a tabernacle, pleading the Lord to go with him and Israelites. He prayed that if the Lord was not with them, they would not move further. To his request to send "someone" to go with him, the Lord assured that He would go with Moses. Who else could be better than God Himself going with Moses? The Lord also promised Moses that he will find rest in God's presence.

2. God's presence proves we have found favor with God (Exodus 33:16)

As Christians we are the most blessed people on the face of the earth, because we have found favor with God. When God is with us, it proves that we have found His favor. What more blessings we can expect than the favor of Almighty, Omnipotent God? When we are favored by God, we lack nothing. His grace is sufficient for our lives.

3. God's presence distinguishes us from all other people (Exodus 33:16)

What is a basic difference between Christians and non-Christians? It is in fact the presence of God. We Christians have been assured of God's presence with us while others are struggling in the darkness, looking for some kind of assurance in their lives. The challenge for us is, is our life-style different from our non-Christian friends in schools, university or work places? We need to be mindful with our speech, conduct and walk to demonstrate that we are different and we are blessed with God's holy presence in our lives.

4. God's presence creates desire for God's glory (Exodus 33:18)

In the presence of God, Moses was feeling blessed. When he was overwhelmed with God's presence, he prayed to the Lord to show His glory. When we enjoy the presence of God in prayer and meditation of God's Word, it generates desire to see God's greater glory. This desire leads to seek the Lord more and more and ultimately leads to our transformation in to the image of Christ. The more we sit in the presence of Lord, we will have more desire to see God's glory and we would develop more Christlikeness.

5. God's presence is antidote for fear and discouragement (Joshua 1:9, Isaiah 41:10)

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). God "commanded" Joshua to be strong and courageous and not to be afraid of any situation, enemies, opposition from own people and discouragement. Isaiah 41:10 promises us of God's presence with us "so do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." If God is with us we have no reason to be afraid or discouraged.

It is awesome feeling to be surrounded by God's presence all the time and at all places. When we read the above verses, we are comforted to know that God is everywhere and we feel assured of His care and kindness. But isn't this a warning for us that we can never escape from His presence nor we can hide ourselves from Him? It is a warning for us that we cannot involve in anything that grieves the Holy Spirit. Even when no one sees us doing anything, God watches over us and we need to be careful with our conduct.

Conclusion:

Christians are the most blessed people on the face of the earth because of God's presence with them. May the Lord comfort us with His assuring presence. Amen