How can we ensure God's presence remains in our lives today? Setting the Scene “Then the cherubim, with the wheels beside them, lifted their wings, and the glory of the God of Israel was above them.” (Ezekiel 11:22) Ezekiel watched the physical, visible glory of God rise and move away from Jerusalem because the people stubbornly clung to sin. The moment is literal history—and a sober reminder that God’s manifest presence is never guaranteed when hearts grow cold. Why the Glory Left • Idolatry had replaced true worship (Ezekiel 8) • Leaders pursued violence and injustice (Ezekiel 11:6) • Hardened hearts refused repentance (Ezekiel 11:19-21) The same patterns still push His nearness aside today. Why the Glory Returns • God delights to dwell with His people: “My Presence will go with you.” (Exodus 33:14) • He promises to make His home in any obedient heart: “We will come to him and make Our home with him.” (John 14:23) Securing God’s Presence in Daily Life Repentance & Cleansing • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” (1 John 1:9) • Daily, honest confession sweeps out the idols that crowd Him out. Loving Obedience • “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me.” (John 14:21) • Obedience is not legalism; it is love that opens the door for His presence. Spirit-Filled Living • “Do not get drunk on wine… instead, be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18) • Yield moment-by-moment to the Holy Spirit, refusing anything that dulls His voice. Holiness & Separation • “For we are the temple of the living God… ‘I will dwell with them.’” (2 Corinthians 6:16) • Guard what you watch, read, say, and do; purity keeps the sanctuary clean. Worship & Praise • “You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” (Psalm 22:3) • Fill your home, car, and gatherings with grateful praise; He loves to sit where He is exalted. Christian Fellowship • “Not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:25) • His presence manifests uniquely when believers unite around His Word. Persistent Pursuit • “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8) • Schedule unhurried time in Scripture and prayer; hunger invites Him close. Practical Daily Pattern 1. Begin each morning with Scripture reading and honest confession. 2. Speak a simple “Yes, Lord” to whatever the passage commands. 3. Invite the Spirit to fill every thought, conversation, and decision. 4. Choose worship—sing aloud, give thanks, testify of His goodness. 5. Stay connected: a faithful church, small group, and godly friendships. 6. End the day reviewing His faithfulness, repenting of any drift, resting in grace. Living Under the Cloud of Glory When sin is forsaken and hearts stay soft, the same God who once departed Jerusalem now gladly settles over lives, homes, and churches. “My Presence will go with you.” He has spoken; our part is to keep the door wide open. |
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