Incomparable And Indescribable
Please take this spiritual journey as I discuss various aspects of God’s Presence. I will explore its preciousness, priority, and how we pursue, practice, maintain purity, draw power, and pay the price for it. In this article, I’ll start by discussing the preciousness of God’s Presence.
The goal here is twofold. One, to stir a longing within you that finds the Presence of God irresistible. And two, to help you see God’s Presence as incomparable, unmatched by anything else you could ever know or experience.
The most holy and important practice in the spiritual life is the presence of God – that is, every moment to take great pleasure that God is with you.
First off, what exactly is the “Presence of God”? The Hebrew word for Presence is “paneen,” meaning to turn one’s face toward someone. This term suggests a sense of acceptance, approval, and favor.
The question then arises: what makes God’s Presence precious? Precious refers to something or someone rare, valuable, and worthy of pursuit. In the context of God’s Presence, it possesses these attributes and is, therefore, precious. But it’s exceedingly PRECIOUS! It’s indescribably PRECIOUS!
Scripture offers us many insights into the preciousness of God’s Presence and how it interacts with our human behaviors. For instance, we learn from Genesis 3:8 that sin often motivates us to shun God’s Presence. Adam and Eve hid from God’s Presence after eating the forbidden fruit, choosing their guilt over God’s loving Presence. Their example tells us sin in our lives is the antidote to God’s Presence because satan uses sin to condemn us. Condemnation makes us run from God, like Adam and Eve. In comparison, the Holy Spirit’s conviction makes us run to God for forgiveness. Either way, try to avoid sin so you won’t experience either condemnation or conviction.
Moreover, when we cease to value God’s Presence, we invite sin into our lives. In Genesis 4:16, Cain is sent away from God’s Presence and immediately descends into violence, indicating that the absence of God’s Presence leaves room for wrongdoing. How true this is.
Additionally, persistent sin can cause us to forfeit God’s Presence altogether. This point is emphasized in verses such as Isaiah 59:2 and Jeremiah 15:1. It is a very, very dangerous place to be spiritually when you no longer sense God’s Presence. You no longer sense the joy of His Wonderful Presence that makes life enjoyable and sweet. Nor do you sense it when you miss the mark, causing you to continue in sin until you are shipwrecked. Exodus 33:15 warns that without His Presence, we are bound to fail. David, the Psalmist, and warrior, pled, “God cast me not away from the Presence.” Psalm 51:11. He knew God’s Presence was precious! Call on God now if you once sensed God’s Presence but no longer do.
On a more positive note, scripture also highlights the blessings that come with God’s Presence. Acts 2:25, 28 tells us that being in God’s Presence brings joy and pleasure. In Exodus 33:14, God’s Presence is said to provide rest and peace.
Not only does God’s Presence bring peace and prosperity, but it also sets us apart. As stated in Exodus 33:16, God’s Presence sanctifies us, making us distinct from others. Furthermore, if God’s Presence is in our lives, it serves as evidence He is pleased with us (Genesis 33:17).
With God’s Presence comes victory and confidence (Joshua 1:5). It also urges us to mind our words (Ecclesiastes 5:2) and guarantees answered prayers (2 Samuel 21:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:3). However, Leviticus 22:3 warns those who dishonor God’s Presence will face His disfavor.
In conclusion, God’s Presence is genuinely precious, embodying priceless treasures and riches, rarity, and immense value. We should strive to embrace and protect it, understanding it is a cornerstone to our spiritual growth and well-being. As we continue this exploration, remember that we aim to understand and appreciate this divine treasure that is always within our reach. Let us seek to live in His Presence, enjoying its benefits and privileges.