In our previous lesson, we focused on God’s promise, “I will never leave you.” Today, we will dig a little deeper in this topic. I pray you will feel God’s presence, recognize that He is right beside you at all times, and never again doubt His presence in your life.
Our study today comes from Psalm 139. Please read this chapter and finish each sentence:
(v. 2) You know when ___________________________________________;
(v. 2) You perceive my ___________________________________________.
(v. 3) You discern my ____________________________________________;
(v. 3) You are familiar with _______________________________________.
(v. 5) You hem me in ____________________________________________;
(v. 5) You have laid _____________________________________________.
(v. 8) If I go up to the heavens, ____________________________________;
(v. 8) If I make my bed in the depths, ________________________________.
I’m trying to picture David’s face as he received these inspired words. There is not a chapter in the Bible more convincing of God’s presence than this one. Sometimes when I write something profound, I read it again and again, knowing that the words were inspired by the Holy Spirit. I wonder if David sprawled on the floor, quill in hand, and pondered each word. Perhaps he put his head into his hands as he tried to contemplate the depths of God’s love while reading this discourse over and over.
David seemed to capture his own rendering of these inspired words when he said, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain” (Psalm 139:6).
Like David, I find solace in this chapter. In fact, Psalm 139 is the very first chapter I memorized, and it still captures my heart when I read it.
Write out David’s response to God in verses 17 and 18.
Write out your own response to God based on Psalm 139.
Dear Lord…
Go back to the final sentence in verse 18 and say out loud the words David spoke. Fill in the blanks.
“When I ________________, I am still ______________ you.”
Without a doubt, David understood that every morning when he awoke, God would be with him no matter what kind of day was before him. Whether faced with another lonely day, or called to the battlefield, or leading his people to God; he could walk confidently in one truth—he was never alone. God was always with him. I’m certain David embraced this truth with determined resolution.
How about you? How strong is your belief in this invincible promise? If your faith is wavering a little, take your time on this next exercise. Look up the following passages and write the promise spoken (then ponder each one):
Joshua 1:5, 9:
Psalm 46:7:
Isaiah 41:9-10:
Isaiah 43:5:
John 14:18:
Loneliness is one of the most devastating facets of life. If you’ve ever walked down this dark and joyless road, you know what I mean. There is no one to wake up to … no one to talk to … no one to share your dreams or aspirations with … no one to cry with …or no one to laugh with. Each day, you’re all alone. There is no one by your side. You may be facing loneliness right now. Perhaps you were plunged into this deep pit through the loss of a loved one, or desertion by a friend, relative, or acquaintance. Maybe you consciously (or sub-consciously) chose this lonely path. But it really doesn’t matter what brought you to such a place. The fact remains—you could be submerged in loneliness at this very moment. Consequently, you might think this is a bottomless pit and you will never stop falling.
Well here’s the good news: No matter how much you think you’re alone, you’re not. God says so. Is that enough for you?
Look up 2 Timothy 4:16-18. Read about Paul’s situation and answer the following questions:
How did Paul face loneliness?
Was Paul ever completely alone? Explain.
What did God do for Paul as He stood by his side?
Read Mark 14:43-52. Did Jesus face a similar situation as Paul? How?
Undoubtedly, Jesus understood loneliness. His beloved disciples deserted Him at the most crucial hour. How do you think Jesus felt?
Now, I want you to bow your head, and step over the threshold into the throne room. The writer of Hebrews says, “Since we have confidence, to enter into the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain … let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:19-22). As you draw near, ask God to reveal His presence to you right now. Then sit back and wait until you feel Him right beside you. Write down how you know He’s with you at this very moment.
I know God is with me because…
Describe, through word or illustration, the splendid truth found in Romans 8:35-39.
Did you catch the full impact of the Apostle Paul’s words? Nothing! Absolutely nothing can separate you from God. This means that whatever you have done in the past, whatever you are currently doing, or what happens tomorrow can ever separate you from the love of Christ Jesus our Lord. No matter how severe the hardship, how broad the depression, how vast the loneliness, or how deep the despair, God is always there and His loves covers it all. God will break down every barrier to stand beside you. He loves you so much and nothing will ever change that. He has gone to the ends of the earth to prove His love for you. He will never walk away from His beloved child. You might drift, but He never will.
Write out Isaiah 45:2.
Based on our previous verse, what measures will God go to provide His presence in your life?
Look up Psalm 31:20. What does God’s presence do for us?
God is calling you out from the place where you sought shelter, and into His dwelling place. It is here where the true presence of God dwells, and where you and I can find safety from the storms of life and the pursuit of the enemy.
Please take time this week to remember that you are never alone! If you still need reassurance of His presence, don’t be afraid to ask Him. His greatest delight is to prove He loves us above all things and He is with us.
Please share this with someone who is feeling alone right now.
Have a blessed day…
