"GOD STILL SIGNALS HIS PRESENCE"

Many people believed in Jesus when He gave sight to the blind and when He fed a large crowd with a handful of food. These and other signs signaled God's presence in the world in the person of Jesus Christ.

"For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the time; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us." Hebrews 9:24

The tabernacle on earth was just a figure ~ the reality in is heaven. "Now to appear in the presence of God for us" means before the very face of God. Christ has not entered into a man-made sanctuary. It is spiritual but real. He died on earth to save us. He lives in heaven to keep us saved. He is there for us.

"Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." Psalm 16:11

"Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing." Psalm 100:2

"Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall dwell in thy presence." Psalm 140:13

These verses above are just a select few of the Bible verses speaking of God's presence throughout Biblical times. Today, God still signals His presence. In 1Corinthians Chapter 13, Paul writes of faith, hope and charity (charity means love). What miraculous signs these are of God's ever-abiding presence! But the greatest of these is love, Paul says. The Holy Spirit produces the miracle of patience, kindness, and humility in you in the middle of a society that glorifies quick results, personal power, and self-promotion. We testify by our lives to trust and perseverance, contrary to trendy beliefs and changeable values.

"Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." Luke 15:10

If a woman and her neighbors delight in recovering a solitary coin (vv 8,9), and if a shepherd takes joy in rescuing a single sheep (vv 4,5), how much more praiseworthy is the salvation of a sinner? While some portray God as impersonal or aloof from human affairs, Jesus here teaches His concern for every individual.

"Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." Philippians 2:12

"Work out your own salvation" does not mean that you should work for salvation in order to obtain it. The Greek phrase "work out" denotes the expression, manifestation, or actualization of something one already possesses. As the Philippians, we must "work out" the salvation God has already placed in us, carrying it to its logical conclusion. Our Salvation is not only for our own profit, but for the good of others as well.

Application: As we see miracles, signs, and wonders, let us remember the greatest miracle is the one of love that God forgives us for Jesus' sake. By His presence through the power of the Holy Spirit, we see them! We live them!

Today's Devotion: "Glory and honor are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place." 1 Chronicles 16:27

God Bless You All as you rejoice in the hope and glory of God's presence today!