Live in God's Presence

"So we are to live and move and have our being in God, to look at everything in relation to God, because the abiding consciousness of God pushes itself to the front all the time."  - Oswald Chambers, early-twentieth-century Scottish Baptist evangelist and teacher (1874-1917)

In the initial segment of the above quotation, to "live and move and have our being" in God comes from Acts 17:28. How does this imply that our dependence on God is total, encompassing all aspects of life?

This verse from the Apostle Paul's speech to the Athenians, highlights that God is the primary cause of everything in existence. It suggests that our ability to live life through our senses, and every breath, heartbeat, and moment is a gift from Him.

This reality is spiritual in nature, not just physical. God is the ultimate reality and source of all awareness. That is, we should let Him be the ultimate guide for our lives. Life without God is empty; with God, it is full of meaning.

To live and breathe God conveys that His presence sustains our inner lives. It highlights that sin is a significant factor in our disconnection from God and impedes spiritual development. It also means purging yourself of things that are "spiritually draining," such as negative thoughts, unhelpful habits, toxic relationships, etc.

Prioritizing a relationship with God involves making daily decisions to obey God's Word, thereby aligning our lives with His will, rather than the world's. In practice, this manifests as a consistent commitment to prayer, active faith, and leaning into the Holy Spirit.

By drawing near to God (seeking Him out), we are, in essence, actively engaging and moving into or toward God. Thus, to bring our points together, by centering our lives on God, we become active partners in His kingdom work.

Implementing and Acting

A. Prioritize God Above All Else:

• What steps can you take to experience God's peace and strength in the midst of life's storms?
• Think about the moments you have felt overwhelmed. Did you instinctively turn to God?

B. Live an Obedient Life:

• How do you actively choose to honor God's word in every decision, even when it's difficult? 
• What is one change you can make in your routine this week to better follow God's will?

C. Pursue a Relationship with God:

• What can you do to feel closer to God this week, even in small ways?
• Think about creating space in your day to connect with Him spiritually, either through prayer or reading the scriptures.

D. Embody the Gospel:

• How can you live out Christian values of compassion, kindness, and fairness every day?
• What is one way to show someone the hope of Christ through my actions or words? 

Essentially, living in accordance with God's plan indicates a life lived in Him isn't pointless; it's a life of divine purpose and direction. Understanding that our life originates from God changes our perspective; we find more joy and gratitude in life, knowing we are part of His purpose.

Scripture: Genesis 2:7; Psalm 36:9; John 14:6; John 15:5; James 4:8

Prayer: "Dear God, you give being to all. I surrender my life to you, the source of all life, and ask that you guide my steps, for apart from you, I can do nothing. Amen." 

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

~Eve