When our emotions overflow, we always teach ourselves to trust in God. Scripture says the “righteous shall live by faith” (Romans 1:17) and “without faith, it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6), and therefore we shouldn’t have to feel God knows He’s there. But we should know where He is present in our difficulties.
Unanswered prayer, a series of disappointing events, a devastating diagnosis, or a betrayal by someone close to you can cause you to think that God has checked out of your life. Other times we get so busy with our own personal and professional affairs. During these times, we may feel guilty that we are not doing enough for Him to want to be around us. But because God has promised He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), we can be assured of His constant presence whether we are struggling with a painful situation or just too busy to notice He is near.
Here are seven ways to focus on Him in your difficulties and busy schedules.
1. Clean Yourself
Sometimes you are not aware of the presence of God in your life. He is there always but somehow you cannot feel it. He hasn’t left, but your sensitivity to His presence might be affected by unconfessed sin in your life. David, the Psalmist, said, “When I kept silent (about his sin) my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord” — and you forgave the guilt of my sin” (Psalm 32:3-5, emphasis added). If you do not feel God in your life, cleanse yourself. First John 1:9 tells us: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” When we restore our relationship with God, you should be getting communication from God. So get clean (through the forgiveness of Christ) and let it flow.
2. Read Scripture Loudly
When you read the Bible, the word of God, you will sense its power and His presence. The Bible says God’s Word is “living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12). That sharp sword will either make you aware of its weight or prick your heart through conviction, inspiration, or determination. Even if you know the word, when it is uttered, you might have gotten the strength in your mind to face everything with the presence of God.
3. Sing Him a Love Song
Singing hymns can make you closer to God. Worship is not limited to singing, but if singing a song of praise to Him gets your mind focused on His presence, do it. When we open the door of our hearts to love Him, He will meet us there.
4. Say a Breath Prayer
We may not get enough time to pray during our working hours. If you drag Him into your busy schedules. Start by saying His name and then speak your heart’s cry. For me, oftentimes it’s just “Jesus, I need You” or “Jesus, give me a heart for You.” I believe the simplest of cries are the ones that penetrate His heart – and ours – the quickest.
5. Go for a Walk
Exercise brings your body, mind, and heart to life. If you lag a spiritual presence in your mind and body, get outside, move around, confess to Him what’s on your heart and let Him wake you up, spiritually. Taking a walk near nature can make you more aware of the creation around you and make you feel more in touch with your Creator, as well. Listen to nature and its music you will be back to your spirituality.
6. Breathe Deeply
We live in a world of too much. We have too many tensions, too many worries, and too many frustrations. Take a deep breath. Breathe out all our haunting thoughts and causes of worries. Breath in the peace. You should be confident. There’s a reason His Word says “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).