His Presence and Promise

One of the great tenants of the Christian faith is a belief in the presence of Christ based on the promises in the Holy Bible.

Consider this:

In Joshua 1:9 we find Joshua right after the death of Moses.  He has been second in command for a while now, yet his leadership skills have been virtually unused for Moses was always nearby. 

He is alone.  He is thinking, and perhaps praying, asking God how in the world he, a mere man, second string at best, can lead the thousands of Israelites into the next phase of their journey.  After forty years of wandering in the dessert, they are about to enter the land of promise under the leadership of Joshua. 

He is fearful.  Scared out of his wits is perhaps a more apt analogy. 

Have you been there before?  Have you faced a new territory, a new venture, and your main mentor all of a sudden leaves the scene.

Now you understand Joshua’s plight.

And along comes a strong word from God.  It goes something like this:

“Now listen up Joshua.  Remember what I said to you.  Don’t worry.  Don’t fear.  I, your God, will be with you wherever you go.”

Don’t worry!  Strong words.

Don’t fear!  Even stronger words.  

God assured Joshua of His presence and wrapped it in a memorable promise.

That is one of my all-time favorite verses, for I too have had to find rest and consolation in those very words on more than one occasion.  And it still works today.

God offers you and me his presence.  Sometimes it is a ‘felt’ experience when God’s spirit seems to settle in around us and hover nearby.  At other times His presence is offered through a scripture, a friend, a phone call, a reaffirming hand on our shoulder, and an encouraging word.  His presence shows up in the usual and sometimes the obscure ways.  What matters is this … He shows up. 

HE SHOWS UP!  He is present when we need him.  That deserves a resounding response.  Offer your praise, give thanks, sing a song, shout out loud, clap your hands, kiss your mate … do something to acknowledge the consistent and abiding presence of God himself.

Wow!  I’m sitting in an airport at this moment as I write, and I tell you I feel that same presence of God here in this corner, as the parade of the world passes my table. 

His promise comes not only from the words to Joshua, but in numerous other scriptures.

Draw near.

Peace be still.

I have come that you might have life.

I will never leave you nor forsake you.

Promises from the heart of God to your heart and mine.

Praise be to God.

Peace, Peace, Wonderful Peace 

- Bill Gaither and Friends 

P Michael Biggs

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