DWELLING IN HIS PRESENCE By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Psalm 16:11 – "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
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Introduction
The presence of God is the safest, most peaceful, and most fulfilling place that a believer can dwell. In a world filled with confusion, darkness, and sin, remaining in God’s presence is the only way to find true sanity, safety, and spiritual strength. When a person chooses to walk closely with God, they partake of His light, wisdom, and power, but when they drift away, they risk falling into deception and destruction.
From the beginning, God desired for humanity to live in His presence, but sin brought separation. However, through Jesus Christ, the door is once again open for us to abide in God’s presence and experience the fullness of His goodness. This teaching will explore the importance of dwelling in God’s presence and how believers can maintain this sacred communion with Him.
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The Safety and Sanity Found in God’s Presence
Psalm 91:1 – "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty."
In a world filled with wickedness, deception, and spiritual warfare, being in God’s presence is the only way to remain spiritually sound. Those who stay close to Him are protected from the schemes of the enemy, while those who wander away become vulnerable to demonic oppression and confusion.
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The Danger of Separation from God’s Presence
Isaiah 59:2 – "But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear."
When believers engage in sin, they create a barrier between themselves and God. Instead of experiencing peace and joy, they become restless and distant. Those who continually indulge in sin eventually become uncomfortable in God's presence and may even avoid seeking Him altogether. This is why it is crucial to remain spiritually clean and walk in holiness.
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The Privilege of Drawing Near to God
James 4:8 – "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."
God has given His people the privilege of drawing near to Him daily. He desires a close relationship with those who seek Him sincerely. Unlike the lost world, which wanders in confusion and despair, believers have access to the joy and peace of the Lord.
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Adam and Eve: A Lesson on Remaining in God’s Presence
Genesis 3:8-10 – "And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden."
Adam and Eve were created to dwell in God’s presence, but when they sinned, they were separated and banished from the Garden of Eden. This teaches us that sin causes spiritual exile, but through Christ, we can be restored and brought back into the presence of God.
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Jesus: The Way Back into God’s Presence
John 14:6 – "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'"
Through Jesus’ sacrifice, humanity has been given a way to return to God’s presence. Without Christ, people remain spiritually exiled and lost in darkness. However, those who accept Him as Lord and Savior are brought back into fellowship with the Father.
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The Call to Remain in God’s Presence
John 15:4 – "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me."
God does not want His people to seek Him only in times of crisis. He desires continual fellowship, where believers dwell in His presence daily. This is the key to spiritual growth, protection, and joy.
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Summary
The presence of God is the place of divine safety, peace, and joy. It is where believers are meant to dwell continually. Sin separates people from God, but through Jesus Christ, the way has been opened for restoration. Those who remain close to God are protected and strengthened, while those who stray away are exposed to spiritual dangers.
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Conclusion
God’s presence is the best place a believer can be. It is where we find sanity, security, and divine guidance. The world is full of confusion and wickedness, but those who choose to abide in God’s presence will not be overcome. By living in holiness and staying close to Jesus, we ensure that we remain in God’s presence now and for eternity.
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Call to Action
Examine your life and ask yourself: Are you dwelling in God’s presence daily, or have you allowed sin to create distance between you and Him? Make a commitment today to draw closer to God through prayer, worship, and obedience. Seek His presence, and He will fill you with His peace and strength.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God has made a way for you to dwell in His presence through Jesus Christ. Do not take this privilege for granted. Stay close to Him, and He will sustain you, protect you, and fill you with His love and peace.
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Prayer of Salvation
Lord Jesus, I come before You today, recognizing that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I repent of my sins and ask You to forgive me. I invite You into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Help me to walk in Your presence daily and to live according to Your will. Thank You for Your love and mercy. In Jesus' name, Amen.
