“‘Am I a God who is near, declares the Lord, ‘And not a God far off?’“ Can a man hide himself in hiding places, So I do not see him?’ declares the Lord. ‘Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?’ declares the Lord.’” Jeremiah 23:23-24. Time spent pondering the life-transforming power of God's presence is time well invested. Bidden, or not bidden, He is always near, yet He often remains unacknowledged. Awareness of His presence is a major game-changer. I must recalibrate my mind, body, and spirit to recognize and welcome God’s Presence. Upon awakening, I must thank Him for the gift of a new day. Throughout each day, I must practice disciplines that cultivate consciousness of His Presence. At the close of each day, I must trustingly rest in God’s Presence, casting all my cares upon Him. Lord, grant me the grace to pull away from the dizzying anxiety of this world and, like a child, lay my head against Your chest. May my breath rise and fall in cadence with Yours and help me learn Your ways.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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