Year of the Bible: Part Three of Twelve Sample

His Presence Among Them.

God didn't have His people wait till they were settled in Canaan to encounter the presence of God. It would be more convenient to build a dwelling place for God after getting to the Promised Land. Still, Moses received instructions about the Tabernacle as a meeting place to be set up among the people during their wilderness wandering.

At the point of completion, this structure which was a combination of wood, canvas, and fabric, became a glorious carrier of the Lord's presence. Without His presence, the Tabernacle would be nothing more than a big, fancy tent. Looking forward at Solomon's temple, it would be just an architectural wonder of man's efforts without God's presence.

Most importantly, we, the Church, are called to be carriers of His presence to a lost world, and apart from His presence, all we'd have are some nice buildings, programs, and a healthy dose of busyness. We must connect with Jesus corporately and individually and in the present moments of life, not relegating our times with Him to more convenient seasons or quieter days. God jumped into the fray with His people, the very thing He is still eager to do with us today.

When the Tabernacle was complete and God's people began connecting with Him, He confirmed His affection, protection, and provision with the cloud and fire. The cloud by day shielded them from the burning desert sun and assured them of His presence and the pillar of fire for cold desert nights. Today, God's presence continues to provide unspeakable peace in our present troubles.

Question: Do you wait for "perfect" circumstances before following Jesus or connecting with Him in personal quiet times? If you paused to reflect, in what ways Has God provided for you and assured you that He is with you no matter whether your current season seems like a bright day or a dark night?

Prayer Focus: If your busy trip through life has caused you to choose to keep traveling on your strength alone, ask the Lord to help you meet with Him in the present, day in and day out. Thank Him for His assurance and provision. Acknowledge your need for His presence and power.

Go Deeper: We can't wait until our lives are settled and comfortable before needing the presence of God. We need Jesus in the wildernesses of our lives, in the unsettled matters of life, when we feel anxious, and when facing issues that are way bigger than us.

It's not just when you get your life cleaned up that you begin to follow Jesus, and it's not just when you have a day off with unscheduled hours to have time with Him and be strengthened by His presence. Remember, you need God's presence in the storm and your regular Chrisitan walk when the way is smooth and straightforward. Apart from Him, you can do nothing (John 15:5).