I cannot expect His ‘presents’ if I reject His ‘presence’.
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Scripture
John 5:37-40
“And the Father who sent me has himself born witness about me. His voice you have never heard, his form you have never seen, and you do not have his word abiding in you, for you do not believe the one whom he has sent. You search the scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life.”
Observation
The Pharisees “had” the word of God, but is was not abiding in them. They had read the word of God, but never heard his voice. They searched the scriptures to obtain eternal life, but rejected the One to whom the scriptures pointed.
Application
Mere head-knowledge about God’s word will not accomplish his transformation within me, if I reject His presence in my life. His word is not a technical reference manual to be read for information–it is an expression of His love for me, to lead me into a closer relationship with Him so that I can experience the full measure of His blessings. I cannot expect His ‘presents’ if I reject His ‘presence’.
Prayer
God, thank you for your word, your voice, your presence, and your life. Help me to daily surrender to you as my Lord, and walk in relationship with you–rather than merely seeking knowledge ‘about’ you. I welcome you into each part of my life.
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