“Acknowledge & Embrace God’s Guiding & Protective Presence”
FOCUS
At the Red Sea, God put His people in a position where His presence had never been so real to them. Using difficulty, He cultivated within them a greater appreciation for Himself. “God’s presence in the trial is much better than exemption from the trial,” wrote one commentator. “The Lord’s presence is never so sweet as in moments of appalling difficulty.”
When you find yourself between sword and sea, remember that difficult times can sensitize us to God’s nearness. He’s never so close as when we’re shipwrecked on omnipotence and driven by despair into His chambers where we find Him “a very present help in trouble.” (These paragraphs are from the opening of chapter 7 in “The Red Sea Rules” by Robert J Morgan)
God’s Guiding & Protective Presence Is …
1. a given to be cultivated & experienced.
The more we consciously acknowledge it, the more we consistently affirm it.
Exodus 14:19-20 / Psalm 125:2
2. a gift to be celebrated & expressed.
His presence is the fragrance that fills every corner of every moment of our lives.*
Psalm 139:5-6 & Isaiah 41:10 Deuteronomy 33:27 James 4:8 / Psalm 23:4
Making It Real
1] How real has God’s presence been to & for you over the recent days & years?
2] Do you truly see His presence & Himself as a gift to be celebrated & expressed?
Action Step
Write out & memorize Psalm 139:5-6 & Isaiah 41:10.
Notes
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- FOUR SUGGESTIONS FOR ELEVATING YOUR AWARENESS OF GOD’S PRESENCE
1] affirm God’s presence in your heart - Psalm 139:5-6 & Isaiah 41:10 …
2] visualize God’s presence in your mind - Deuteronomy 33:27 …
3] access God’s presence through prayer - James 4:8 …
4] reflect God’s presence in your attitudes & actions - Psalm 23:4 …
Cornerstone Community Church 5344 Fishcreek Rd Stow OH 44224
Pastor Dan Page July 25, 2021, 2021 www.ccc-stow.faithlifesites.com