When a foreign king was outsmarted by Israel in 2 Kings 6, his advisors said to him, "Elisha, the prophet tells the king of Israel the very words you speak in your bedroom.” This is how close God is to us all the time. Sometimes this helps us to resist temptation.
Over breakfast this morning a friend and I discussed the temptation of passing an attractive joggers, and how it helps to imagine that our wives are in the car with us. Then I said, “You can also imagine that Christ is riding with you,” and I think we both realized at the same time, this is something we don’t have to imagine—it is actually the case. And even more than just ‘riding with me,’ he is reading my thoughts. This is how close God is to us all the time.
And much more than just the negative (protection against temptation), there is also a positive application of the nearness of God. If I am lonely and single, I have the constant companionship of my best friend. If I am being wheeled into surgery, the Great Physician will watch over the physician’s every move. If I have lost my spouse, my Bridegroom will never die. This is how close God is to us all the time.
God, help me to know and feel deeply your presence today. And help me to act and will and live today with such courage and contentment that shows the world that this is all I need.
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