The Lord promises to be with us always.  I sometimes imagine Him walking beside me or sitting next to me in the car. Other times, it’s like He just pops into my presence and I am reminded that I am not alone. Often, He does this through His creation or His people. To coin a cliché, ‘It’s all good’.  There are also many times when I am intentionally seeking His presence, sometimes desperately, and there He is.   Unfortunately, there are too many times that I am not aware of Him at all. It’s my fault and I hate that.  I don’t ever like to exclude people or not notice their presence.  I strive to be inclusive.  There have been many books and teachings about the presence of God. The one that comes to my mind is Practicing the Presence of God* by Brother Lawrence.  Great title for a great read!  The word ‘practice’ implies ‘intentionality’.  We have to make a point of it!!

*Practicing the Presence of God.  Brother Lawrence 1977

From the journal . . . . December 2018

“Lord, it’s been a busy day but I’m so, so, grateful for Your presence.  You are the Lord of my life and I want my life to reflect that.”

And I Believe God Said:

How do you think that should look?

“I think I would experience more peace, joy and calmness; the fruit of the Spirit.” Gal 5:22-23

Yes. That you would bear fruit.*

John 15:8

After that, I was reading in my Beth Moore devotional* . . .

*Beth Moore Day 88. Snapshots with Jesus.  

She was directing readers to remember special and significant times we have had with Jesus in the past.  I was remembering times when I didn’t know the Lord, and then times when I did.  Joyful times and hard times in both seasons of my life. Jesus was always there.

“. . . I love You, Lord. Faithful God.  We do have a history.”

And I Believe God Said:

Yes. I was with you always.  And I still am.  Many don’t ever see Me but I am present.  I love when you look to Me and smile.  I see the love, joy, and tears. . . and the longing to see more.  I’ll go with you everywhere you go.  Yes, it is a promise, and yes, everywhere!

Psalm 139:5-10. Matt 28:20b