We are ending the month of July 2023…half of this year…already GONE! The world is facing a countdown on a the fast track, with multiple obstacles from which no one is exempt! On a National, State and Local level we have been, and are being forced to face new challenges. Some tests are big, but none bigger than God’s drive through these encounters to see our lives changed…
As women of faith, we face the ultimate challenge of practicing, sharing, and comforting those around us who are struggling with how to handle it all. Abraham’s life demonstrated that even the heathen around him recognized the difference between how he lived and those observing him. (Gen. 21:22) Abimelech spoke to Abraham saying, “God is with you in all you do”! God told Gideon, “There is a might in you so powerful it can save Israel and that might is MY PRESENCE!”
The Isaiah 43: 1-5 verses confirm that when God’s presence abides on us, we can go through any fire, pass through any waters, through rivers that overflow us (Pucuro, in the Darien jungle!) and know His presence is all we need abiding in us. We are responsible to choose to “practice His presence”. As we do this, God will guide our steps, open doors of ministry, move obstacles, lift cares, remove fears and abide in us!
“Fear not for I am with you” is the promise and comfort
we all need to combat the steady barrage of lies and chaos.
God’s abiding presence brings peace and triumph. The manifestation of the Spirit-controlled life…directed and trusting only God…is key to laying hold of the power of God. It is NOT, God plus whatever makes me comfortable or is convenient, BUT only God, plus nothing.
God attaches a condition to having His presence in our lives.
Do you know what it is?
We know it is useless to attempt any endeavor apart from Him… which can only be maintained in our lives, as we choose to confess sin and not allow any unresolved relationship to hinder it!
“God works through holiness, not a dirty cup!”
Roy Heisson Calvary Road
When the Israelites were in the wilderness, God manifested His presence to them in a cloud. This cloud was a pledge. They never had to figure out their direction or future because their confidence was in that visible cloud of God’s protection. Today, the cloud of God’s presence hovers over our secret closet of communion with Him through His Word and prayer.
Peace is the prize and it will lead us, empower us, and keep us in God’s rest in every area of our lives, regardless of the confusion and disorder around us. “The continual pursuit of God’s presence will direct us into a revelation of Christ’s glory. God’s presence will go with us and He will give us rest.” (Exodus 33: 13)
Our guide through this maze is waiting to give us peace and rest…
Are you ready??
~Jackie Johnson - I am a former tribal missionary to the Kuna Indians on the Colombian border in Central America. Fluent in several languages, my husband and I currently pastor a Spanish-speaking church in Southern California. My passion is mentoring and equipping dedicated young women for life, marriage, motherhood, and beyond. I am the mother of two daughters and the grandmother of three Princesses and four young Knights.
