Invitations to AbundanceSample

Presence

“I’m here,” are some of the most comforting words that can be spoken in any language.

The other day I was reading a novel set in wartime. A home was rattled by explosions outside. Inside, a man ran over to the woman he was with as she ducked for cover and repeated those words in her ear. Did those words stop the bombs? No. But they were a tremendous comfort and provided needed stability amidst chaos and uncertainty. Sometimes all we need to know is that we are not alone.

We are Not Alone

Language throughout Psalms both hints at and boldly proclaims the Lord’s presence. Psalm 16:8 says, “Because the Lord is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” Psalm 139 portrays God as omnipresent and unavoidable. Whether the Psalmist was questioning God’s presence and activity or lauding it, his thoughts, and by extension, his poetry often revolved around the theme of God’s presence.

Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved verses dedicated to the theme of God’s presence found in scripture. An often overlooked verse in this psalm, however, is verse 8 where God prepares a table in the presence of David’s enemies. Here, the table is evidence of God’s presence. God is with him not just in green pastures but before threats to his safety. In fact, God is constantly pulling out the chair for us to come to his table and partake of his grace.

The Promise of Presence

We can take comfort in knowing that God, in His Word, has spoken an eternal enduring “I am here” to each of us. Even when it can’t be felt, his presence can be known. Because of this, whatever threat surrounds us, we can know he is nearer still.

What are some promises of God’s presence in the Bible that really resonate with you? Make a list and then try committing one a month to memory so you can cling to them when trouble comes.