THE PRESENCE OF GOD

At the recent Alpha UK Vision Day the emphasis was very much on prayer as the powerhouse to 're-evangelise the nations and transform society'. As I have written before, it was an encouraging and challenging day with much to ponder and put into action.

Pete Greig, Holy Trinity, Brompton's 'Director of Prayer' spoke in the afternoon session from Exodus 33. In verse 3 God says, 'Go up to the land flowing with milk and honey. But I will not go with you,' asking the provocative question, 'Would you rather have answered prayer or the presence of God?' It sounded a bit like a Harry Hill moment and I expected Pete to call a fight to sort it out, Promised Land or Living in God's Presence! What would you choose?

Pete then went on to talk about how we ensure the presence of God goes with us.

Exodus 33:6 - Deny Distractions. Don't settle for second best!
Exodus 33:11 - Prioritise Prayer. I can't afford to lose the presence of God. Talk face to face.
Exodus 33:13 - Love Learning. Cannot rest on the past success, keep growing

This deliberate, focused life results in verse 14, 'The Lord replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."' (I think Jesus said that as well! - Matthew 11:28; 28:20)

Is it really that difficult? The answer is no and yes because the pressure is always not to do it. The pressure is to be distracted, to pray as a last resort, to stop learning because you think you know enough. I'm asking God to give me the strength, power, courage, resolve to put Him first in everything because I want His Presence with me. And if He is with me, who or what can be against me? Then His Kingdom will come and I'll be able to see amazing things happen as lives are transformed by His power, families will be changed, neighbourhoods will be changed, workplaces, churches, nations willbe changed, because God will be with us.

It's the presence of God every time for me.

If you want to see Pete's Talk go to:
http://www.alphafriends.org/video/uk-vision-day-2010-prayer-talk-video