How to Enjoy the Presence of God

There is a sweetness about the presence of God that is unlike anything we experience naturally. If you have ever experienced His presence, you will know that it leaves you longing for more.

A songwriter captured this beautifully in the words, Your presence is heaven to me. It is no wonder the Psalmist also said:

You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

-- Psalm 16:11 NKJV

The presence of God is a great source of strength and comfort, especially as we navigate the challenges and pains of life.

Knowing how important His presence is, how then can we enjoy it?

Your Obedience Is Key

In John 14:23–27, Jesus taught His disciples how they could continue to enjoy His presence even after He had departed from the earth.

He said:

If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.

-- John 14:23 NKJV

Jesus connects our love for Him with keeping His Word and speaks of the Father and Son making their home with the one who loves Him.

Obedience is therefore an important part of our relationship with God.

Many years later, the Apostle John emphasised this same truth in his first epistle:

But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.

-- 1 John 1:7 NKJV

John describes living in obedience as walking in the light.

Since God is light, we must walk in the light by living in obedience to His Word. This is essential to our fellowship with Him and enjoying His presence.

Obedience Is Not Perfection

Walking in obedience does not mean you will never fall short. When you sin, acknowledge it, confess it to God, and continue your walk with Him.

The Apostle John writes:

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

-- 1 John 1:9 NKJV

God has made provision for us when we fall short. We can receive His forgiveness and cleansing and continue walking in the light.

It Is a Step-by-Step Journey

Friend, obedience to the will of God is important, but it is also a journey of growth.

Just as a child learns to crawl before standing and taking steps, we grow in obedience one step at a time. As you learn God's Word and put it into practice, your steps become firmer.

Keep moving forward with a determination to grow in obedience and become more established in your walk with God.

As you walk in the light, you nurture your fellowship with Him and enjoy the richness of His presence.