What practical steps can we take to prepare for God's presence in our lives? The Moment in Job 4:15 “Then a spirit glided past my face, and the hair on my body bristled.” Eliphaz describes a sudden, almost imperceptible brush with the supernatural. God can be this near—closer than our breath—yet we may miss Him if we are unprepared. Recognize His Subtle Approach • 1 Kings 19:12 reminds us that the Lord was not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but “in a gentle whisper.” • Practical step: Carve out quiet—drive with the radio off, silence notifications, sit still for five minutes before opening the Bible. • Expect that God may speak without spectacle. Hair standing on end can be enough to alert the soul that He is present. Clean Hands, Pure Heart • Psalm 24:3-4—only those with “clean hands and a pure heart” ascend the hill of the Lord. • James 4:8—“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands…purify your hearts.” • Practical step: Daily confession. Keep short accounts with God. If the Spirit nudges about a sin, deal with it immediately. Consecrate Your Surroundings • Exodus 3:5—Moses removed his sandals on holy ground. • Practical step: Designate a corner of your home as “holy ground.” Keep a Bible, journal, and perhaps a simple cross there. Treat that space differently—no screens, no casual chatter. Slow Down to Sense the Sweep • Psalm 46:10—“Be still, and know that I am God.” • Practical step: Practice Sabbath rhythms. One day a week, resist errands and work. Let your soul settle enough to notice when a spirit “glides past.” Maintain Holy Fear and Humility • Job 42:5-6—Job’s encounter ends with repentance in dust and ashes. • Practical step: Begin time with God by verbally acknowledging His greatness. Kneel, bow your head, or lift your hands—posture trains the heart. Stay Saturated in Scripture • Colossians 3:16—“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” • Practical step: Memorize one verse each week. When the Spirit moves, He often uses previously stored truth to speak. Cultivate Ongoing Conversation • 1 Thessalonians 5:17—“Pray without ceasing.” • Practical step: Tie prayer to routine actions: when washing hands, thank Him for cleansing; when locking the door, ask for protection; when seeing a sunrise, praise His faithfulness. Watch and Record • Habakkuk 2:2—“Write down the vision.” • Practical step: Keep a spiritual journal. Note moments when you sensed God—chills, sudden insight, a Scripture highlighted in your mind. Reviewing entries builds expectancy. Simple Checklist for Readiness 1. Quiet your environment. 2. Confess sin immediately. 3. Set apart a holy space. 4. Schedule Sabbath rest. 5. Approach with reverent posture. 6. Immerse in Scripture daily. 7. Pray throughout routine tasks. 8. Journal encounters and insights. Prepare, and you’ll recognize the gentle glide of His presence—whether it raises goosebumps or whispers peace into the deepest corners of your heart. |
    |