Experiencing God’s Presence: Beyond Feelings and Emotions
Pastor Bolarin Megbolugbe
September 28, 2024
Introduction
As Christians, we often struggle to understand what it means to experience God’s presence. Some associate it with feelings and emotions, while others wait for spectacular signs. However, the Bible reveals a deeper truth.
In Exodus 33:14, God promises, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” This promise isn’t limited to feelings or emotions; it’s a steadfast commitment. Consider Elijah’s experience in 1 Kings 19:11-12. Amidst wind, earthquake, and fire, God’s presence wasn’t in the spectacular manifestations. Instead, it was a gentle, still small voice.
*Debunking Misconceptions*
1. Feelings are deceptive: Emotions can mislead us.
2. Spectacular signs aren’t always necessary: God’s presence can be subtle.
*Reconnecting with God’s Presence*
1. *Talk to Him*: Regular communion strengthens your relationship.
2. *Be Real With Him*: Share your deepest concerns and desires.
3. *Don’t Chase After A Feeling*: Seek God, not emotions.
4. *Wait On Him*: Set aside quality time for the Lord.
5. *Be Holy*: Reflect God’s presence to others through your life.
*Key Takeaways*
1. God’s presence is always with us (Hebrews 13:5).
2. Feelings and emotions are unreliable measures.
3. Intimacy with God increases through genuine communication.
*Conclusion*
Experiencing God’s presence transcends fleeting emotions. It’s about cultivating a deep, abiding relationship. As you seek Him, remember:
– Be patient, bold, and strong.
– Hunger and thirst for His presence.
– Trust in His promise to never leave or forsake y
May you encounter God’s presence in a profound way, and may His love and peace surround you.
*The Multifaceted Nature of God’s Presence*
While God’s presence transcends feelings and emotions, it’s essential to acknowledge that emotions and feelings can be a genuine aspect of experiencing His presence.
Biblical Examples:
1. *Joy and trembling*: Ezra 9:4-5 – Ezra’s emotional response to God’s presence, feeling both joy and trembling.
1. *Fear and awe*: Isaiah 6:1-5 – Isaiah’s encounter with God’s presence filled him with fear and awe.
1. *Peace and comfort*: Psalm 23:4 – David experienced God’s comforting presence, giving him peace.
1. *Conviction and repentance*: Acts 2:37-41 – The crowd’s emotional response to Peter’s sermon, leading to repentance.
1. *Ecstasy and revelation*: 2 Corinthians 12:2-4 – Paul’s experience of being caught up to heaven, feeling unspeakable joy.
*Emotional Responses to God’s Presence*
1. Tears of repentance and gratitude
2. Uncontrollable joy and laughter
3. Deep sense of peace and calm
4. Awe-inspired fear and reverence
5. Heartfelt worship and adoration
*Balancing Emotions with Faith*
While emotions are a natural response to God’s presence, it’s crucial to:
1. Not rely solely on emotions for spiritual validation.
2. Cultivate faith and trust in God’s promises.
3. Recognize emotions can be fleeting, but God’s presence remains.
By embracing the multifaceted nature of God’s presence, we can deepen our relationship with Him and experience the fullness of His presence.
*The Interplay Between Faith and Emotions*
Faith and emotions are intricately connected in the Christian experience. Understanding their relationship can help you navigate the complexities of your spiritual journey, specifically the manifestation of the Presence of God in your life.
*Faith: The Foundation*
Faith is the confidence in God’s existence, character, and promises (Hebrews 11:1). It’s the rational, intentional decision to trust God, regardless of emotions.
*Emotions: The Response*
Emotions are the heart’s response to God’s presence, promises, and workings. They can be:
1. Positive: Joy, peace, gratitude, and love.
2. Negative: Fear, doubt, anger, and sadness.
*The Dynamic Interplay*
1. Faith informs emotions: Trusting God’s sovereignty and goodness shapes emotional responses.
2. Emotions influence faith: Strong emotions can strengthen or weaken faith, depending on how they’re managed.
*Healthy Interplay*
1. Faith stabilizes emotions: Trusting God’s promises anchors emotions during turmoil.
2. Emotions energize faith: Genuine emotional responses to God’s presence can deepen faith.
*Unhealthy Interplay*
1. Emotions dictating faith: Letting feelings control faith can lead to spiritual instability.
2. Faith suppressing emotions: Ignoring or denying emotions can hinder spiritual growth.
*Biblical Examples*
1. David’s psalms showcase the interplay between faith and emotions (Psalm 42, 51).
2. Jesus’ emotional responses in Gethsemane demonstrate faith amidst turmoil (Matthew 26:36-46).
*Practical Applications*
1. Cultivate faith through Scripture and prayer.
2. Acknowledge and manage emotions healthily.
3. Recognize emotions’ fleeting nature.
4. Seek spiritual support during emotional struggles.
*Conclusion*
The interplay between faith and emotions is complex and vital. By understanding this relationship, you can:
1. Develop a resilient faith.
2. Navigate emotional challenges.
3. Deepen your connection with God.
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