Scripture to Read: Luke 18:1-8
Prayer includes practicing God’s incredible presence in our lives, continually, because He lives in us through His Holy Spirit. When we consider how to practice God’s presence, it’s like enjoying our favorite meal, sport, video game, music, movie, social media venue, T.V. show, etc…. When we are enjoying any of these things, there’s nothing else that we are even interested in because our attention is so focused on that thing we’re enjoying. Practicing God’s presence is living in the reality that God lives in us and that we can, and should, fellowship with Him throughout our entire day. Practicing God’s presence means we become so intimate in our fellowship with Him that even when temptation hits us, we immediately begin to talk with Him and turn away from that temptation. Practicing God’s presence means our minds and hearts dwell on Him and His Word even when we’re daydreaming. God wants us to practice His presence; that is why He tells us to be continually renewed in our minds (see 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:23; Philippians 4:8). Our mind is the battlefield where the reality of God’s presence takes root. We must believe with all our heart and mind that God truly does live in us, that God’s holy presence is changing us, and that we belong to Him. Dwelling on God and His Word guides us and guards us against all of the other distractions this world throws at us each day. Let’s start practicing His presence today.
Challenge & Application
1. What did you learn today about practicing God’s presence in your life?
2. What are some things you’ll do to become better at practicing God’s presence in your life?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!