The Resting Place of God’s Presence: Guarding Our Hearts from Pride and Offense
Isaac Megbolugbe
January 31, 2025
Introduction
As believers, we are privileged to have the Presence of God reside within us. However, our hearts can become a barrier to experiencing this divine presence due to pride and offense. These two obstacles can hinder our ability to connect with God and enjoy the accompanying fellowship. Pride, a subtle yet destructive force, can lead us to rely on our own strength and wisdom, rather than surrendering to God’s guidance. Offenses, on the other hand, act like traps, preventing us from approaching God’s Presence. These offenses can arise from daily life, and it’s our choice whether to take them on or not.
I have learned the importance of not taking offense, which enables me to forgive effortlessly and maintain a tender heart, open to God’s Presence. This practice allows me to stay sensitive to His leading and enjoy uninterrupted fellowship with Him.
To safeguard our hearts and ensure we remain grounded in God’s Truth, it’s essential to:
1. Stay close to the Word of God, recognizing its authority and authenticity.
2. Be aware of the counterfeit truths presented by the world and draw clear boundaries between truth and deception.
3. Refuse to compromise on God’s Word, even when faced with criticism or ridicule.
Remember, nothing that erodes the truth of God’s Word is holy. We must stand firm in our convictions, doing so with love and respect. By guarding our hearts against pride and offense, we create a welcoming space for God’s Presence to reside, leading to a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him.
Forgiveness is a Daily Requirement
As we strive to maintain a heart that is receptive to God’s Presence, we must also recognize the importance of forgiveness. Holding onto offenses and past hurts can create a barrier between us and God, preventing us from experiencing the fullness of His Presence.
Forgiveness is a choice, and it’s a process that requires effort and dedication. However, the reward is immeasurable. By choosing to forgive, we create space in our hearts for God’s Presence to dwell, and we experience the joy and peace that comes with it.
In addition to forgiveness, humility is also essential for creating a heart that is receptive to God’s Presence. When we humble ourselves before God, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and our need for His guidance and direction. This humility creates a fertile ground for God’s Presence to flourish in our lives.
As we journey through life, it’s essential to remember that our hearts are the resting place of God’s Presence. By guarding our hearts against pride and offense, choosing forgiveness, and walking in humility, we create an environment that is conducive to experiencing the fullness of God’s Presence.
May we continually seek to create space in our hearts for God’s Presence to dwell, and may we always be mindful of the importance of maintaining a heart that is receptive to His love and guidance.
Scripture References:
– 1 John 3:19-22
– Psalm 51:10-12
– Matthew 6:14-15
– Proverbs 4:23
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Help me to create a heart that is receptive to Your Presence. Forgive me for the times I have allowed pride and offense to create a barrier between us. Give me the strength to choose forgiveness and humility, that I may experience the fullness of Your Presence in my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Guarding Our Hearts
As we conclude, remember that:
– God’s Presence is the source of our strength, joy, and peace.
– Pride and offense can hinder our ability to experience God’s Presence.
– Forgiveness and humility are essential for creating a heart receptive to God’s Presence.
– Guarding our hearts is an ongoing process, requiring effort and dedication.
May the following prayer be a blessing to you:
“Dear Lord, I surrender my heart to You, asking You to create a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. Help me to walk in humility and forgiveness, that I may experience the fullness of Your Presence in my life. May my heart be a resting place for Your Presence, and may I always be mindful of Your love and guidance.”
As you go about your day, remember to:
– Stay grounded in God’s Word
– Be aware of the counterfeit truths presented by the world
– Refuse to compromise on God’s Word
– Choose forgiveness and humility
By doing so, you will create a heart that is receptive to God’s Presence, and you will experience the joy, peace, and strength that comes with it.
May God bless you and keep you, and may His Presence be with you always.