“Think often on God, by day, by night, in your business and even in your diversions. He is always near you and with you; leave him not alone.”
Brother Lawrence
Jesus has promised that he is always with us. So, for the Christian, there’s not one moment of the day when God is not with us, by the person of the Holy Spirit. ‘Practising the presence’ is simply about learning to acknowledge, appreciate and enjoy the presence of God – not just in the highs and lows, but in the ordinary, everyday moments of life.
Here are three steps to help you do this:
1. INVITATION
Whatever you are already doing, invite Jesus to do it with you. If you’re going for a run, invite Jesus to come. Washing the dishes? Invite him to do it with you. Watching TV? Invite him to join you. He is always mindful of us, but when we ask him to come with us, we are more mindful of him.
2. ATTENTION
Turn your attention to Jesus. Deliberately practise focusing on him, and being aware of his presence. Look upon him, with your inner gaze. As you tap your keyboard, as you breathe in, as you wash each item of cutlery, be aware that the Holy Spirit is right there with you.
You might find it helpful to put things around the house or your place of work to remind you of his presence. That might be a scripture, like one of the following:
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17
3. CONVERSATION
Finally, because he’s present – because he’s there – simply chat with him. Talk with him, like you’d talk with a friend, about what you see, how you’re feeling, what’s going on in your head. If you don’t hear his voice, don’t worry. God is not predictable, he’s free to love us how we need in that moment. Sometimes God’s presence might seem tangible – you might hear the voice of God. Other times, it might feel like nothing. Either way, just enjoy having Jesus with you. He’s a wonderful companion, and a loyal friend.
