What Does God's Presence Mean? God's presence encompasses a broad spectrum of meanings, as described in Bakers Evangelical Dictionary. It can elicit fear in some instances, such as when Adam and Eve, after sinning, hid from the Lord in the garden of Eden (Genesis 3:8) or when Isaiah confronted God's holiness, which illuminated his own sinfulness (Isaiah 6:5).

 

Many who encountered God or His angels feared for their lives (Judges 13:22; Luke 1:11-12; 2:9), while others futilely attempted to evade His presence (Jonah 1:3). As God manifests His presence through His immense power, the entire earth trembles (Judges 5:5; Psalm 68:8), rendering false gods powerless in His presence (Isaiah 19:1). Fear and trembling are fitting responses before the One who holds dominion over all creation (Jeremiah 5:22).

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Nevertheless, God's presence offers solace in times of distress, remaining the unwavering source of miracles, healing for broken hearts, and restoration for lives plagued by illness. The downhearted discover encouragement, and the ailing find healing; all find strength through praise (Psalm 42:5). Although our emotions may suggest otherwise, our trust in God should not be contingent on our feelings. Scripture affirms that the "righteous shall live by faith" (Romans 1:17) and that "without faith, it is impossible to please God" (Hebrews 11:6); we need not rely on feelings to acknowledge His presence.

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In the tumultuous world we inhabit today, many individuals encounter discouragement for valid reasons. The far-reaching consequences of Covid-19, including the loss of loved ones and shattered families, along with economic hardships, have left a profound impact. Our nation appears more divided than ever before. It may seem as though God's presence is elusive, and people seek answers in these trying times, often in vain.

 

Unanswered prayers can be disheartening, and betrayal by a close associate might lead one to believe that God has abandoned them. At times, the busyness of our daily lives may cause us to feel guilty, thinking we're not doing enough to warrant God's presence.

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However, because God has promised that He will never abandon us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), we can be assured of His perpetual presence, whether we are grappling with adversity or too preoccupied to notice His proximity. When God seems distant, here are seven ways in which you can encounter and sense His presence.