Do you ever feel like God just isnt there? Although our feelings tell us that at times, we shouldnt be driven by our emotions when it comes to our trust in God. Because Scripture says the righteous shall live by faith (Romans 1:17) and without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6), we shouldnt have to feel God to know Hes there. But I know how you feel if you find yourself discouraged at times, because it seems like God just isnt around. Unanswered prayer, a series of disappointing events, or a betrayal by someone close to you can cause you to think that God has checked out of your life. Other times we get so busy with our day-to-day lives that we feel guilty that were not doing enough for Him to want to be around us. But because God has promised He will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), we can be assured of His constant presence whether we are struggling with a painful situation or just too busy to notice He is near. Here are seven ways to focus on Him and sense His presence in the midst of your struggle or your chaotic schedule: 1. Come Clean with Him. Sometimes you cant sense Gods presence because theres something blocking the communication between the two of you. He hasnt left, but your sensitivity to His presence might be affected by unconfessed sin in your life. David, the Psalmist, said, When I kept silent (about his sin) my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, I will confess my transgressions to the Lord -- and you forgave the guilt of my sin (Psalms 32:3-5). If you feel God isnt around because the two of you havent talked in awhile, or because youve avoided the thought of Him for so long, confess to God whats on your heart and mind and ask Him to give you an ear to hear His voice again. 1 John 1:9 tells us: If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. When your fellowship with Him is restored, the communication can flow again. So get clean (through the forgiveness of Christ) and let it flow. 2. Read Scripture Aloud. When you audibly speak Gods inspired Word, you will sense its power and His presence. The Bible says Gods Word is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). That sharp sword will either make you aware of its weight or prick your heart through conviction, inspiration, or determination. A pricked heart is better than a dull heart any day, wouldnt you agree? 3. Sing Him a Love Song. God inhabits the praises of His people. Ever wondered why you sometimes feel closer to God when youre in a church service, singing hymns or praise songs? Could be because thats where worship tends to take place. When you start praising Him, regardless of where you are, youll sense His presence, probably because youre no longer focused on yourself, but on Him. When we open the door of our hearts to love Him, He will meet us there. 4. Say His Name. People around you may be using Gods name right and left (as a swear word in anger, or as a thoughtless expression). But Scripture says there is power in the name of Jesus because Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Say His name aloud -- as the Answer to all you seek, as the Source to calm your soul, as the One whose presence you long for and you will sense the power of His presence...and His peace. ◀whole article on one page12▶ 33 Decrease Font SizeReset Font SizeIncrease Font SizePrintEmail 47 Comments Recently on Women Why Forgiveness MattersRenee Fisher When (not if) we blow it, do we admit fault or ... What’s on Your Mom Bucket List?Theresa Ceniccola When the kids go back to school, I write down a... A Life Full of Purpose Begins With TrustJennifer Heeren So do not throw away this confident trust in t... How to Help a Friend Through Breast CancerJanet Thompson October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and s... Archives Editors Picks Unromanticized Piracy Video review: Tom Hanks carries the weight of Captain Phillips Always Ready The top 10 defenses youth can give for their beliefs Tempted to Chase Weary of always feeling like going after something better? 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Posted on: Tue, 15 Oct 2013 02:00:11 +0000