Practicing the Presence of God
In this 15-minute faith formation, we'll explore the significance of Matthew 18:20, Colossians 3:3, Luke 17:3-4, and Psalm 139:1-4 in understanding God's presence in our daily lives.
Scripture Foundation
Matthew 18:20 says, "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." This verse reminds us that God is present in our community, even when we're gathered in small groups or one-on-one. Colossians 3:3 adds, "For you have died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." This passage highlights the reality that our lives are hidden with Christ, and as we're hidden, we're also hidden with God. Luke 17:3-4 encourages us to cultivate a mindset of humility and awareness of God's presence, saying, "Be careful what you are doing, lest the thoughts of your heart turn to evil; for in the way you judge others, you will be judged; and the measure you give to others will be the measure you get." Finally, Psalm 139:1-4 declares God's intimate knowledge and presence in our lives, stating, "You have searched me, Lord, and you know me; you know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?"Main Content
When we practice the presence of God, we're not just thinking about God being present in our lives; we're actually experiencing His presence. We can practice the presence of God by:- Scheduling regular times of prayer and reflection
- Being intentional about seeking God's presence in daily activities
- Cultivating a sense of gratitude for God's presence in our lives
- Write down three things you're grateful for
- Reflect on how God has been present in your life recently
- Ask yourself how you can intentionally seek God's presence in your daily activities
Learning Objectives
- Identify the significance of Matthew 18:20 in understanding God's presence
- Demonstrate ways to regularly seek God's presence in daily life
- Analyze the relationship between being 'hidden with Christ' (Colossians 3:3) and practicing the presence of God
- Apply Luke 17:3-4 to cultivate a mindset of humility and awareness of God's presence
- Explain how Psalm 139:1-4 illustrates God's intimate knowledge and presence in our lives
Application Steps
- Schedule a daily time for prayer and reflection
- Reflect on how God has been present in your life recently
- Seek opportunities to intentionally seek God's presence in your daily activities
Reflection Questions
How have you experienced God's presence in your life recently? What are some ways you can intentionally seek God's presence in your daily activities?