This blog post explores the significance of growing in God's presence, drawing lessons from the book of Exodus. It emphasizes the importance of preservation, divine timing, and direction that comes from being in God's presence, as well as the transformative power it has in our lives.
In a recent sermon, Apostle Alan Adams delved into the profound theme of growing in God's presence, using the book of Exodus as a foundational text. This exploration not only highlights the historical context of the Israelites' journey but also offers valuable lessons applicable to our lives today.
The sermon begins with a reading from Exodus 13:17-21 and Exodus 14:13-20, where we see God leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Notably, God chose not to lead them through the land of the Philistines, despite it being the shorter route. Instead, He guided them through the wilderness, demonstrating His understanding of their needs and fears. God knew that facing war too soon could cause them to lose heart and return to Egypt.
As the Israelites journeyed, God provided them with a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. These pillars were not just physical manifestations; they represented God's constant presence and guidance. The cloud offered shade from the harsh desert sun, while the fire provided warmth and light during the cold nights. This divine presence was crucial for their preservation and direction.
Apostle Adams emphasized that growing in God's presence is essential for several reasons:
The first point made was about preservation. When we pursue growth in our careers, relationships, or ministries outside of God's presence, we expose ourselves to vulnerabilities. The Israelites' journey through the desert illustrates that being in God's presence protects us from the attacks of the enemy. Without His guidance, we risk experiencing premature failures in various aspects of our lives.
The second point discussed was the importance of divine timing. Apostle Adams pointed out that it is possible to be on the right path but at the wrong pace. Many people may find themselves rushing into decisions or actions that lead to negative consequences. By growing in God's presence, we align ourselves with His timing, ensuring that we do not miss out on the blessings He has in store for us.
The third aspect of growing in God's presence is receiving direction. The Bible teaches that the steps of a righteous person are ordered by the Lord. When we are attuned to God's presence, we gain clarity on our paths and decisions. Apostle Adams referenced David's acknowledgment of God's guidance, emphasizing that we should not move forward without seeking His presence first.
Apostle Adams also highlighted the necessity of prayer and consistency in our spiritual lives. He encouraged the congregation to intensify their prayers, especially during challenging times. The Israelites' cries for help during their oppression led to God raising up Moses as their deliverer. This serves as a reminder that our persistence in seeking God can lead to breakthroughs in our lives.
Another significant point made was about capacity building. Growing in God's presence stretches our ability to receive and contain His blessings. Many people may receive prophetic words or revelations but struggle to translate them into their lives due to a lack of capacity. The presence of God equips us to handle the blessings and responsibilities He entrusts to us.
In conclusion, Apostle Adams urged the congregation to actively seek God's presence in every aspect of their lives. He reminded them that in God's presence, there is fullness of joy, peace, and direction. As we embark on our journeys, let us remember the lessons from the Israelites and strive to grow in God's presence, ensuring that we are preserved, aligned with His timing, and guided in our decisions.
As we move forward, let us take God with us in our daily lives, trusting that He will lead us to the blessings He has prepared for us.
In the words of Apostle Adams, "Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you."
