Seeing With Your EarsSample

Practicing the Presence – Hearing God in the Daily Fight

In the battles of life, it's easy to assume that past victories guarantee future wins. David, a man after God’s heart, shows us something radically different: intimacy with God requires fresh instructions for every season. Though the Philistines attacked in the same way twice, David didn’t rely on yesterday’s strategy. Instead, he returned to the stronghold—his place of communion with God—and inquired again. This was a man who practiced the presence of God.

Victory is not just about knowing what to do, but hearing when and how to do it. God told David, “Do not go up straight. Wait until you hear the sound of marching in the trees.” What a strange sign—marching feet in the tops of trees! But that’s the mystery of divine partnership: when God moves ahead, even the impossible sounds like instruction. And obedience to that sound leads to breakthrough.

Too many of us rely on routines—what worked last year, last week, even yesterday. But the Lord is not a formula. He is a person who desires real-time relationship. This means waking each day and saying, “Holy Spirit, how do I respond today?” Maybe today’s battle needs fasting. Tomorrow might require worship. The next, simple silence. If you keep trying old keys for new doors, you’ll remain stuck.

“Practicing the presence” means you live aware of God at all times—not just in worship services or 5AM prayer. It’s knowing He’s with you when you’re doing laundry, at the grocery store, stuck in traffic, or crying in the dark. Like David, we must live with daily dependence, seeking God’s direction even for things we think we’ve mastered. Otherwise, we become vulnerable to repeated attacks.

God’s presence is not just for deliverance, it’s for instruction. The Holy Spirit doesn’t just want to give you peace—He wants to lead you. He wants to guide your steps, tell you when to wait, and when to move. Just as David waited for the sound in the poplar trees, we must learn to wait for the Lord’s signal. When we do, He goes before us, defeating what we could never conquer alone.

This kind of lifestyle requires humility. It means laying down your own understanding and admitting: “I need You, God, for this moment.” David modeled that. And so must we. When the enemy returns, don’t panic. Retreat into the stronghold—His presence—and listen.

Reflection Questions:

1. Have you been relying on old strategies instead of asking God for new instructions?
2. In what areas of your life is God asking you to “wait for the sound” instead of rushing ahead?
3. What are practical ways you can “practice the presence” of God in your everyday routine?

Action Step:

Choose a simple daily task this week (like brushing your teeth, driving to work, or walking) and intentionally invite the Holy Spirit into it. Say out loud, “Holy Spirit, I acknowledge You. Guide me today.” Journal any changes in your awareness, thoughts, or actions throughout the week.