BOLD PURSUITSýnishorn

That word “never” can be difficult for some of us to hear, especially if we’ve been abandoned by someone close to us. But people aren’t perfect. God is. His presence is constant. Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, and forever.”

If we can’t feel God’s presence, it may be because we’re distracted by busyness or overwhelmed by emotions. Our spiritual vision gets blurry. Sometimes we turn our backs on Him to pursue our own desires. But God never leaves us.

If we want to be constantly aware of God’s presence, we need to live right before God by pursuing holiness, studying the Bible, and praying without ceasing. In the Old Testament we see Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego face a fiery furnace. We see David walk onto a battlefield to face a fearsome giant. Then we see the same David in Psalm 51:10–11 saying, “Create in me a clean heart, God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.” Those heroes of Scripture knew they weren’t alone. God was in the furnace. God stood with David.

He stands with us, too, no matter what situations we face. He gives us His promise in His Word. We believe it and act on it with faith. Even though we can’t see the future, we know that God will work all things together for good to those who are called according to His purpose. Even if we have to face death because of persecution, we should not fear it, because it is God alone who decides when our time here on earth is done. Remember Paul’s words: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).

Prayer reveals God’s closeness in an even more immediate way. He doesn’t rush to our side when we pray because He doesn’t need to—He’s already within us. Instead, He makes His presence known to us. He speaks to us. He listens to us and calms our spirit. He lets us know that we are never alone.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the assurance that You are always with me. Please help me rely on You when I face distractions, and please give me strength and peace in times of turmoil. Amen.