What steps can Christians take to experience God's presence as described in Joel? Joel 3:17—The Anchor Verse “Then you will know that I, the LORD your God, dwell in Zion, My holy mountain. Jerusalem will be holy, never again will strangers pass through it.” • God dwells among His covenant people. • His presence is inseparable from holiness. • Experiencing Him begins with knowing this promise is literal and true. Recognize His Indwelling • Accept by faith that His Spirit lives within you (2 Corinthians 6:16; Romans 8:9). • Declare this truth aloud each morning; faith precedes feeling. • Let every task become “holy ground” because He is there. Pursue Practical Holiness • 1 Peter 1:15-16—“Be holy, for I am holy.” • Hebrews 12:14—Holiness is the pathway to “see the Lord.” • Action points: – Remove defiling influences (Psalm 101:3). – Guard speech (Ephesians 4:29). – Choose edifying friendships (Proverbs 27:17). Abide Continually in Christ • John 15:4—“Remain in Me.” • Stay in Scripture; let His words remain in you (John 15:7). • Respond in constant prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Obey promptly (John 14:21), keeping fellowship unbroken. Cultivate Worship and Thanksgiving • Psalm 22:3—God is enthroned on His people’s praises. • Sing, speak, and write praise daily. • Gratitude turns ordinary spaces into “holy mountain” moments (Psalm 100:4). Gather with the Saints • Hebrews 10:24-25—assembling stirs hearts to draw near. • Corporate worship mirrors Joel’s sanctified city. – Arrive expectant, pray for the service. – Engage fully in song and Word. – Minister to others afterward (John 13:35). Walk in Continual Repentance • Acts 3:19—repent so “times of refreshing” may come from His presence. • 1 John 1:9—confession restores fellowship. • Keep short accounts; replace sin with Spirit-led action (Ephesians 4:22-24). Seek the Spirit’s Filling • Joel 2:28-29’s outpouring fulfilled at Pentecost (Acts 2). • Ephesians 5:18—be continually filled. – Ask in faith (Luke 11:13). – Yield every area to His control. – Step out in dependence; He fills what He directs. Anticipate the Ultimate Fulfillment • Revelation 21:3 echoes Joel 3:17—God will dwell with men forever. • Hope of future glory fuels present purity (1 John 3:2-3). • Live today as citizens of the coming holy city. Daily Rhythm for Experiencing His Presence 1. Begin by acknowledging His indwelling. 2. Meditate on His Word. 3. Offer worship and thanksgiving. 4. Walk in obedience and quick repentance. 5. Seek fresh filling of the Spirit. 6. Engage in fellowship and service. 7. End the day reflecting on His nearness and renewing hope for His return. Living these steps turns Joel 3:17 from prophetic promise into present reality, letting believers know and enjoy the God who dwells among His holy people. |
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