January 4, 1891, Charles Spurgeon preached a famous sermon on this verse---four words. And Spurgeon opened: "These words may be used as a test as well as a text." An awakening for us to measure. A mercy for us to share. The highest blessing that could come on any city. The Presence of God. Jehovah-Shammah. And the vision of restoration belonging to Ezekiel ends in beauty. Nothing, nothing, nothing could surpass God's Presence. And so the last words of this book draw to a beautiful closing. Is the Presence of God your great desire, your great hope? Wherever you go today, whatever you are stuck in the middle of, may you find the Presence of the Holy One and recognize His Hand on you. And the last line of Spurgeon's sermon grips me so. "My Lord cannot say that he does not know me, for he has known my soul in adversity." Yes, He has.
COME BOLDLY: Timeless Prayers
Father, we come to You this day with even more bread of adversity. And we say, You, O God, are here with us this day. We believe it. Help our unbelief.
PHOTO: This hundred-year-old city in the photo boasted people who walked in the day of Charles Spurgeon. Oh God! You were there one hundred and twenty three years ago. You are here today. May we know Your Presence today in adversity and smooth sailing.
What is it I seek - the presence of God or something else? I pray it is His presence and staying focused on my eternal home not this transitory life.
ReplyDelete