Presence Matters

"Better is a dry morsel with quietness, than a house full of feasting with strife. A wise servant will rule over a son who causes shame, and will share an inheritance among the brothers."

Proverbs 17:1-2

These verses tell us some examples of setting correct priorities. Verse 1 emphasizes how peace and harmony should be pursued over prosperity. I have seen Verse 2 in action; Wisdom is truly recognized before blood relations.

"The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the hearts."

Proverbs 17:3

The LORD sees everything. I believe that in every trial, even in every moment, we have a choice to make, a priority to set. Do we react head-on and 'real' as the world tells us to? Do we rely solely on what we have learned through teaching, influence and experience?

Or are we able to take a moment to acknowledge God's absolute sovereignty over all things, lifting everything to Him before we do anything else?

Whether we like it or not, we need God's presence more and more in our lives through Jesus Christ. In God's presence we are put in our place, we do not think of ourselves or rely on ourselves. There is a song that goes "In Your presence, LORD, there is fullness of joy", and that's also found in Psalm 16:11. Nehemiah 8:10 states "Then he said to them, "Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." ".

Not only do we experience God's joy in His presence, we also draw strength from Him! Take the time to prioritize getting more of God's presence today!
To God be all the glory!