How do I sense the real presence of God?

Sensing the real presence of God is a profound and deeply personal experience that many believers yearn for. It is a journey that involves faith, practice, and an openness to the workings of the Holy Spirit. As a non-denominational Christian pastor, I would like to guide you through understanding and experiencing the real presence of God in your life.

The presence of God is not something that can be conjured up at will or experienced through mere human effort. It is a divine gift, a grace that God bestows upon us. The Bible assures us of God's omnipresence; He is always with us, even when we do not feel His presence. Psalm 139:7-10 states, "Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me." This passage reminds us that God is always near, regardless of our awareness.

However, sensing God's presence in a tangible way often requires intentionality in our spiritual practices. One of the primary ways to cultivate an awareness of God's presence is through prayer. Prayer is not just about asking for things; it is a means of communicating with God, building a relationship with Him. When we pray, we open our hearts to God, allowing Him to speak to us and reveal Himself to us. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Through prayer, we can experience the peace that comes from God's presence.

Another essential practice is reading and meditating on Scripture. The Bible is God's Word, and it is through His Word that He often speaks to us. Hebrews 4:12 tells us, "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we open ourselves to the living and active presence of God. Meditating on God's Word allows it to penetrate our hearts and minds, transforming us and making us more aware of His presence.

Worship is another powerful way to sense God's presence. When we worship, we shift our focus from ourselves and our circumstances to God. Worship can take many forms, including singing, playing music, and even silent adoration. Psalm 22:3 says, "Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel." This verse suggests that God inhabits the praises of His people. When we worship, we create an environment where God's presence can be felt more tangibly.

Community is also vital in experiencing the presence of God. Jesus said in Matthew 18:20, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." Being part of a community of believers allows us to experience God's presence through fellowship, mutual encouragement, and corporate worship. The early church in Acts 2:42-47 provides a beautiful example of this, as they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, resulting in a palpable sense of God's presence among them.

Silence and solitude are practices that can help us become more attuned to God's presence. In our noisy, busy world, it can be challenging to hear God's still, small voice. Jesus often withdrew to solitary places to pray and be with the Father (Luke 5:16). Following His example, we can set aside time to be alone with God, free from distractions, allowing ourselves to become more aware of His presence.

It is also important to recognize that God's presence is not always accompanied by extraordinary feelings or experiences. The prophet Elijah's encounter with God in 1 Kings 19:11-13 is a powerful reminder of this. Elijah expected to find God in the mighty wind, earthquake, and fire, but God was not in those dramatic manifestations. Instead, Elijah heard God's voice in a gentle whisper. This teaches us that God's presence can be subtle and quiet, and we must be attentive to perceive it.

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a crucial aspect of sensing God's presence. When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, the Holy Spirit comes to live within us (1 Corinthians 6:19). The Holy Spirit is our Comforter, Counselor, and Guide, leading us into all truth (John 16:13). Cultivating a relationship with the Holy Spirit through prayer, obedience, and sensitivity to His promptings can help us become more aware of God's presence in our lives.

Experiencing God's presence also involves faith. Hebrews 11:6 says, "And without faith, it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him." Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). Even when we do not feel God's presence, we can trust that He is with us, based on His promises in Scripture.

Christian literature and testimonies can also be valuable resources in understanding and experiencing God's presence. Books such as "The Practice of the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence and "Experiencing God" by Henry Blackaby provide insights and practical advice on cultivating an awareness of God's presence. Reading the testimonies of other believers who have experienced God's presence can encourage and inspire us in our own journey.

In addition to these practices, it is essential to examine our hearts and lives for any barriers that may hinder our awareness of God's presence. Sin, unforgiveness, and distractions can create a distance between us and God. Confession and repentance are vital in maintaining a close relationship with God. 1 John 1:9 assures us, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." By addressing these barriers, we can open ourselves more fully to experiencing God's presence.

Lastly, it is important to remember that experiencing God's presence is not about seeking a particular feeling or experience. It is about seeking God Himself. Our relationship with God should not be based on our emotions but on our faith and trust in Him. Sometimes, God may allow us to go through seasons of dryness or spiritual desolation to deepen our faith and reliance on Him. During these times, we can take comfort in the words of Psalm 23:4, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

In conclusion, sensing the real presence of God is a journey that involves faith, intentionality, and openness to the Holy Spirit. Through prayer, Scripture, worship, community, silence, and solitude, we can cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our lives. By examining our hearts and addressing any barriers, we can draw closer to God and experience His presence more fully. Ultimately, it is about seeking God Himself, trusting in His promises, and allowing Him to reveal Himself to us in His perfect timing and way.