Meditation
GOD WITH US Dr. Joseph Stowell
Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them. Revelation 21:3
Throughout history, God has desired to dwell with His people. Don’t let that thought get lost. Put this book in your lap and consider the reality that the almighty God desires your company.
In case you doubt it, the proof is abundant. From the very first it was unhindered fellowship in the Garden of Eden. After Adam and Eve fell, God reentered the scene and sacrificed to restore the broken relationship.
After Israel left Egypt, God instructed the people to build a portable tabernacle where His presence would dwell in their midst. Under Solomon, a permanent home for Him was built in Jerusalem. Then Christ came and “pitched his tent among us” (John 1:14 EMPH. NT).
When Christ was about to ascend to heaven, He claimed that the time was coming when God would “temple” in us (see John 14:15-17). Ultimately, God will establish a new heaven and a new earth where “the dwelling of God is with men” (Revelation 21:3).
Why would He want to be in our midst He dwells in our hearts to glorify His name through us (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). He dwells with us to help us live fruitfully and to empower our prayers (John 15:7-8).
The Holy Spirit dwells within us to teach us the truth (John 16:13). He dwells in us to convict in the world (John 16:7-11). He temples in us to produce righteousness through our lives in an unrighteous world (Galatians 5:16-23). And, finally, God dwells in us to strengthen us for works of power and love (2 Timothy 1:7).
How privileged we are to have the unfathomable honor of God in and with us. Yet earthly friends and the cares and distractions of this world often get more space in our lives. If we aren’t careful, He can become little more than just another guest of our lives-and often a guest without honor at that.
Can you find time for Him? Can He occupy the place of honor in your heart? What have you done to entertain this guest with your love lately?