If we are honest, there are some people and certain situations that we would rather avoid. Rather that be chatty Cathy or downer Dorothy in the office or the woes of financial or relational troubles, we have some things we would rather just pass us over. However, life does not always give us the return to sender option.
A few days ago I was reading in my Streams in the Desert Devotional and it highlighted how Daniel and Jesus had faced difficult times of testing but were able to withstand. But they only came out standing because they had dwelt in the presence of God. We can not control what all comes in our presence but how we stand in the presence of it is determined by whose presence we have dwelt in.
It brought to mind the passage in the 23rd Psalms that says he prepares a table before in the presence of mine enemies. How comfortable would you feel sitting and dining among your enemies? Just the thought makes me a little uneasy.
When I fail to dwell on God’s truth, I am easy to become disheartened, discouraged, and disquieted. But the more I practice His presence, the more inner strength I feel, the more encouraged and the more determined I not to give up so soon.
This is absolutely true! Sometimes I am blown away by how many people I am able to tolerate now that I know The Lord. People I would have avoided at all costs before.
Great post!
It really does make a difference doesn’t it.
A beautiful reminder my dear friend that we need to dwell in His truth. When I got too many days of pushing Him to the side I can always tell the difference. He is our strength! I’m so grateful I no longer need to try and push through without Him.
Many blessings.
Oh, how is your Airman doing? Keeping him in my prayers.
Beth
He is doing well. My family certainly appreciates your prayers for him.
His presence is where I need to stay….that is where I find peace
Me too Kim.
Oh Wanda, I love this! Thank you for the reminder to run to His Presence so that we can be girded up at all times. I remember Joyce Meyer once said that marinating in God’s presence softens us. So true!
I rarely have time to visit others. I’m so glad I stopped by today.
Love!
Beth
Glad you had a moment to stop by Beth. May His peace permeate your day.
Wanda,
This is so true! Now, we only need to remember that we are not handling situations on our own and seek His presence. I think this is a “constant” that we need to practice and believe: It’s faith, in living color~
I couldn’t agree more Cynthia. It seems I need to be reminded of it more than ever these days.
I don’t care about strength. I just don’t want to be alone anymore.
I understand your frustration. But his presence can even brings us peace during those moments when things are not going as we planned. I had one of those pouting moments last weekend.
Hi Wanda! The peace that is Christ can just ooze out of us if we stay in his presence, as you already know! I have been wrestling with myself this busy holiday season. I can get so annoyed so easily. Yuk.
Thanks for the reminder that I need to remember who I belong to, and how I can open myself to that constant stream of grace. Then I can sit at the table with anyone!
Love, Ceil
Yes, I want to sit at table in peace with everyone as well Ceil.
Oh Wanda, how encouraging this post was to me today. There are a few situations that I’m having some difficulty withstanding. But, I am standing with the Lord – and so, He is helping me keep my feet firmly planted on The Rock!
GOD BLESS!
Yes, yes the rock is sure foundation for us. I was just telling my sister a few days ago that the winds of life have brought some unexpected things. Yet I still find myself stand upon the rock!
Ephesians tells us to put on the full armor of God and we can only get that armor in His presence. Well said, Wanda!
Being properly dressed is so important isn’t Pam?
Oh goodness, I wish I had a return to sender option sometimes. Thanks for the gentle reminder to practice His presence.
Ha girl I think we all do! I know I’d like to send some packages back, lol.
Best place ever. In God’s presence:)
I couldn’t agree more Joy!
The only hope I have to become more like God is to spend more time in His presence. Loving the new look for your blog, Wanda.
Thanks for sharing at Essential Fridays.
Blessings
Mel from Essential Thing Devotions.
Thanks Mel. My pleasure to join you when I can.