Restoring the Presence of God in My LifeSample

His Presence, Our Greatest Approval

In life, we all need the approval and support of our spiritual leader, family, or friends. Especially when we are going through a crisis (Psalm 51:11). However, the greatest approval will always be God’s presence.

Moses faced great challenges in freeing Israel from Egypt. Still, his greatest fear was that God’s presence wouldn’t accompany him (Exodus 33:15). He understood that without His presence, his task would be impossible.

No matter who is against us, if God is with us and for us, no one can stand against us (Romans 8:31).

Without God’s presence there is no life or health, no joy or peace, no provision or protection, no power or supernatural atmosphere.

Gifts Don’t Replace His Presence

The anointing of the Holy Spirit and His gifts approve our calling and purpose, but our character and our heart are approved only by God’s presence.

There are people in the church who live in sin, yet prophesy and perform miracles and healings. Clearly, the Lord does not approve of this (Matthew 7:22-23). What is happening there is that the gifts are irrevocable and function independently of our condition.

God will always confirm the gifts He has given us because they are evidence of His power and existence, not of our condition, nor our holiness, nor our relationship with Him, much less His approval.

God shows His disapproval by removing His presence, not His gifts.

We can continue with our faith and gifts without His presence, although it is dangerous because we won’t have God’s endorsement or approval.

If you are a Christian leader, you must dwell continually in His presence because, if you don’t, even if you minister under the anointing and miracles occur, that anointing will be contaminated and the gifts tainted. Everything done outside of His presence (outside of a relationship with Him) is spiritually illegal and opens a door to the enemy.

Let us pray the prayer of Moses together (Exodus 33:13, 15):

“Heavenly Father, if I have found favor in Your eyes, please show me Your way, that I may know You and find favor in Your eyes. If Your presence does not go with me, I will not go anywhere. Show me Your face, reveal Your presence to me today and every day of my life. This I pray in Jesus’ name."

This plan has been adapted from the book Restoring God's Presence: Living Daily in the Power of His Joy, Peace, and Rest by Guillermo Maldonado. If you have enjoyed this plan, you can read more by clicking here to get this book with a special discount!