Day 81 – This Conversation

Brother Lawrence emphasized what is important in practicing God’s presence: “It is important . . . to realize that this conversation with God takes place in the depths and center of the soul. It is there that the soul speaks to God heart to heart, and always in a deep and profound peace that the soul enjoys in God.”

Whenever we learn a skill that becomes a regular practice – like a new exercise program or eating more healthy – we tend to focus on the outward mechanics of what we are doing.

It’s the same in practicing God’s presence: Consistently bringing God into our daily activities. Connecting with God throughout the day with short prayers. Intentionally thinking about God. Singing worship songs. Meditating on Scripture. Listening to the voice of the Spirit. Affirming that we are in Christ and Christ is in us. And so on.

For what purpose? Enjoying intimate fellowship with God, continuous and unbroken, all day, every day – this conversation of prayer and presence.

Beyond the mechanics of practicing God’s presence, you intentionally develop a closer relationship with God that is God-focused, Christ-centered, and Spirit-led.

From the center and depths of your being, you consistently nurture this friend-to-friend, heart-to-heart conversation with the Almighty, invisible God who has revealed himself in Christ and whose Spirit lives within you.

God makes peace with you relationally. “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). Coming to faith in Jesus Christ, you are reconciled with God.

God gives you peace within. “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). God’s peace stands guard over the feelings of your heart – fearful anxieties and apprehensive emotions – and over the thinking of your mind – fretful worries and racing thoughts.

God brings you the peace of his presence. “And the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:9). The God who lives and loves and breathes peace is with you.

Action Step: Where are you in this conversation with God? Learning the habit? Loving the relationship? Living in peace?

This is God’s Word for you today,
Pastor Dave