In what ways can we invite God's presence into our church today? Anchoring Our Study: Solomon’s Cry for God’s Nearness “Now, My God, may Your eyes be open and Your ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.” (2 Chronicles 6:40) What Solomon Modeled • Recognized God as personal—“My God” • Appealed to God’s senses—eyes that see, ears that hear • Centered everything on the place of gathered worship Inviting God’s Presence in Our Church Today Worship that Enthrones Him • Psalm 22:3: “You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” • Prioritize God-exalting lyrics rich in Scripture. • Encourage wholehearted, undistracted participation. Persistent, Unified Prayer • Acts 4:31: “After they had prayed… they were all filled with the Holy Spirit.” • Set regular corporate prayer times before services. • Equip members to pray Scripture aloud—inviting His listening ear. Repentance and Holiness • 2 Chronicles 7:14 ties answered prayer to humble repentance. • Provide moments for silent confession and assurance of forgiveness. • Leaders model transparent repentance, fostering a culture of holiness. Faithful Teaching of the Word • 2 Timothy 4:2: “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season.” • Expository preaching honors God’s voice above all opinions. • Encourage congregational Bible reading plans to keep hearts aligned. Sacrificial Love and Unity • John 13:35: love marks true discipleship. • Psalm 133:1–3 links unity with God’s commanded blessing. • Celebrate testimonies of service—meals, visitation, practical aid. Spirit-Led Obedience and Expectancy • Acts 13:2: while the church worshiped and fasted, the Spirit spoke. • Create space in gatherings to wait on the Spirit’s promptings. • Obey quickly when He directs—missions, generosity, reconciliation. Consecrated Space and Attentive Hearts • Ephesians 2:22: “In Him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.” • Keep facilities clean and dedicated, but emphasize hearts as the true temple. • Train greeters and ushers to welcome all warmly, mirroring God’s open eyes and ears. Encouraging Promises to Stand On • 2 Chronicles 7:15: “Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.” • Matthew 18:20: “Where two or three gather in My name, there am I with them.” • James 4:8: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” Living It Out This Week • Set aside one evening for corporate worship and focused prayer. • Examine personal habits; repent of anything grieving the Spirit. • Speak Scripture over the congregation—publicly read passages that exalt Christ. • Serve a fellow member in need, turning love into action. • Enter Sunday gathering with expectancy, praising Him in advance for being present among His people. |
    |