Longing for God’s Presence - Martin Wiles

Then Moses said, “If you don’t go with us personally, don’t let us move a step from this place.” Exodus 33:15 NLT

She longed for their presence: her son and husband. Both fought in a Middle Eastern war. She worried night and day, never totally focused on anything she did. What if both were killed? Or suppose they were critically injured? How would that change the life she had known?

Another time and place. Another person. She and her husband longed for the presence of their son. He had made some unwise decisions that landed him in jail. Six years had passed with only temporary visits. They longed for him to be released so he could move back home, where they could talk and visit regularly.

Moses, too, longed for God’s presence. He had agreed to God’s assignment and led God’s people out of slavery. But no sooner had they left Egypt than the rebels rebelled. While Moses received the Ten Commandments on a mountain, they lounged below and wondered what had happened to him. Additionally, they fashioned a golden calf to take God’s place. God considered annihilating them and starting over with Moses. Moses, however, interceded for the people and begged God to go with them on their journey to the Promised Land. He didn’t want to move one step if God wasn’t by his side.

Emotions can trigger our longing for God’s presence. A soul-stirring musical concert or fiery sermon can easily arouse them. We can be stirred, feel God’s presence, and be ready to take on the world for Christ. However, the danger of longing for God’s presence only when something stirs our emotions is that the feeling is typically short-lived. Though important and necessary, emotions mimic a roller coaster’s up-and-down movement.

A longing for God’s presence that results from an inner conviction that we need and want his presence is more permanent. Faith and a firm commitment will carry us farther than an emotional experience.

When we long for God’s presence, as Moses did, we strive to please him with our actions, words, and attitudes. We live a holy lifestyle, recognizing that our bodies are a temple of his presence. And we move closer to him daily, long to grasp the opportunities he sends and share him with others.

Pursue those things that will help you long even more for God’s presence.

Father, I believe you are with me always. Help me long to feel your presence with me continuously. 

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