In His Presence

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. - Psalm 16:11

When I read this verse, the word “satisfaction” comes to mind. Through time in His presence, God is inviting us to experience His overwhelming mental, spiritual, and emotional satisfaction.

By simply sitting with Jesus, we receive revelation and insight, fullness and joy, and an opportunity to experience the Lord’s love more intimately. When I first processed these truths, I thought, Really, God? You want to do all that for me? I realized that moments in His presence are never wasted. Even in our busy society, keeping this in mind can help us prioritize everything else that comes after our daily time with God. We can also remain in His presence by keeping Him on our minds throughout the day.

A few years ago, the Lord told me that the places He planned to take me would require that I spend a lot of time with Him. He assured me not to worry about how much time I carved out of my schedule to be in His presence because His Spirit would energize me and give me life strategies in the process. Through time in God’s presence, He can accelerate us and give us wisdom for issues we’re dealing with. He can redeem time and allow us to transcend it.

Imagine yourself entering into His presence empty and coming out filled; going to Jesus sad and receiving His joy; feeling burdened and overwhelmed and receiving His peace. There is serenity in just reflecting on the love God wants to pour out during those one-on-one moments. With all the competing demands of modern life, it can be a balancing act to find time to spend with God each day. But when we set aside time to be in His presence, we receive all the answers and encouragement we need to navigate the ups and downs of daily life. We find the grace to grow and flourish as He wants us to.

REFLECTION

Are you intentional about your time with God? Are there times when you put Him first? Are there times when you fit Him in after other considerations? How might you be able to more readily think of Him first? What kinds of changes would you need to make? What do you think would change if you could more deeply acknowledge His presence?

PRAYER

Dear Father, thank You for giving me a standing invitation to be with You. I receive Your peace, joy, revelation, and wisdom that come as a result of Your presence. Thank You for Your grace. In Jesus's name, amen.