In what ways can we prepare ourselves to encounter God's presence daily? Setting the Stage “and be ready by the third day, because on the third day the LORD will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people.” (Exodus 19:11) Key Preparation Lessons from Sinai • Consecrate yourself: “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow.” (Exodus 19:10) • Clean up outwardly: “They must wash their clothes.” (Exodus 19:10) • Live in expectation: “Be ready by the third day.” (Exodus 19:11) Timeless Principles for Daily Life • Pursue holiness—God still values “clean hands and a pure heart” (Psalm 24:3-4). • Seek inward cleansing—“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive …” (1 John 1:9). • Draw near with faith—“Anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists.” (Hebrews 11:6) • Establish boundaries—“Come out from among them and be separate.” (2 Corinthians 6:17) • Wait quietly—“Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) Practical Daily Steps • Start early with God’s Word (Mark 1:35; Psalm 5:3). • Confess quickly; keep short accounts (1 John 1:9). • Clothe yourself with Christ’s character (Romans 13:14). • Guard your inputs—set holy boundaries around screens, conversations, environments. • Carry Scripture with you; meditate “day and night” (Joshua 1:8). • Pause for brief worship breaks—sing a verse, whisper thanks, acknowledge His nearness. • Walk in immediate obedience—“If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word.” (John 14:23) Encountering God Through the Day • Serve others as though serving Christ (Matthew 25:40). • Practice continual gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Invite the Spirit to direct moment-by-moment choices (Galatians 5:16). • End the day recounting His faithfulness—let reflection fuel tomorrow’s expectation. Promises That Sustain Us • “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8) • “Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit … you are not your own.” (1 Corinthians 6:19) • “Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence.” (Hebrews 4:16) Live ready, stay clean, and keep your heart expectant—the same God who came down on Sinai delights to meet with you every single day. |