In what ways can we ensure God dwells among us today? God’s Promise to Dwell with His People 1 Kings 6:13: “And I will dwell among the Israelites and will not abandon My people Israel.” From Stone to Living Temples • Exodus 25:8 shows God’s consistent desire: “And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them.” • In Christ the dwelling moves from a building to His people: 1 Corinthians 3:16—“Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple, and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” • 2 Corinthians 6:16 confirms it: “I will dwell with them and walk among them.” Preparing the Temple of the Heart • Faith in Jesus Christ – John 1:12; John 14:23—“We will come to him and make Our home with him.” • Obedient love – John 14:15-17, 23: love is proven by keeping His word, and the Spirit is given. • Holiness and purity – 2 Corinthians 6:17-7:1; 1 Peter 1:16: set apart lives welcome His nearness. • Continual repentance – 1 John 1:9: confession keeps the temple cleansed. • Word-filled minds – Colossians 3:16: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” Daily Practices That Invite His Presence • Abiding fellowship – John 15:4-5: remain in Him through prayerful dependence. • Praise and worship – Psalm 22:3: God is “enthroned on the praises of Israel.” • Corporate gathering – Matthew 18:20: “Where two or three gather… there am I.” • Spirit-led service – Ephesians 2:10; Galatians 5:25: walking in the Spirit displays His residence. • Unity and love in the body – Ephesians 2:19-22: together we “are being built… into a dwelling place for God.” Life Together: A Living Temple under Construction • Each believer is a “living stone” (1 Peter 2:5). • Christ Himself is the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20). • Mutual encouragement, accountability, and sacrificial love keep the structure sound. Encouragement for the Journey God’s covenant promise in 1 Kings 6:13 stands firm today. When we trust Christ, guard holiness, and walk in loving obedience, He gladly dwells in and among us—never abandoning His people. |
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