In Search of CHRISTmas Presenceනියැදිය

God’s Presence Brings Purpose

Scripture:

“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” (Galatians 4:4-5 NIV)

“…and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20 NIV)

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalms 46:1 NIV)

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…” (Isaiah 43:1-2)

Reflection:

The purpose of Jesus’ coming was personal - it was for you and for me. He arrived at just the right moment, the very time appointed by His Father. In love, He called us His own and extended to us the invitation of adoption into His family.

Think of someone you know who has adopted a child. One of my favorite Christmas songs is by Stephen Curtis Chapman and talks about a little orphaned boy who has written a letter to Santa, his one wish being a family…a mom and dad to care for him, to be present with him. Picture what it might be like to be that child, in need of a loving Mom and Dad to care for them, to provide for them, to love them. Think of what it might be like for that child not to have the promise of the presence of a family. Now, imagine the joy of that child after he/she is adopted as a son or daughter into a family.

That joy is ours as well. We, too, have been adopted and are welcomed to enjoy the constant presence of God. He has promised His presence to us for now and all eternity. And His promise remains sure: He is our refuge - an ever-present help who never takes a moment off, always near when we need Him most.

Because of Him, we have purpose. We are His. And He has promised to be with us and sustain our purpose in every season of life.

Application:

This week, take a few moments each day to reflect on one area of your life where you might be feeling aimless or uncertain. Write down one way God’s presence gives you purpose in that area. Then, say a simple prayer:

“Lord, I am Yours. Guide me and help me live out the purpose You have for me today. Thank You that You are always with me.”

To make it even more tangible: pick one concrete action you can take this week that aligns with God’s purpose for you—whether it’s showing kindness to someone, sharing your faith, or investing in a relationship—and do it intentionally, remembering that His presence empowers and guides you.

Prayer:

Father, you are always good. You are my father. I am your son or daughter. I trust you and thank you for your presence in my life.

It has been my honor to share these moments and thoughts with you during this Christmas season. As you navigate the landscape of this, the most wonderful time of the year – the shopping, cookie making, parties, time with friends and family, and the festive gatherings, my prayer for you is to be steeped in His presence.

May your words and actions declare the following - “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15 NIV)

An Invitation to Go Deeper:

Have you enjoyed this reading plan? Please accept my invitation to download my eBook, Solitary Refinement. I would love to connect with you and hear more about your story. My prayer is that you will find God at a deeper place in your solitary refining moments.

Imagine stepping into a room prepared for a meeting with a great Head of State. This is no ordinary place - it is adorned with beauty, splendor, and grace. The moment you cross the threshold, you sense it: something profound fills the air. A presence - His presence welcomes and surrounds you.

You are not just a visitor; you are the guest of honor. His presence carries the promise of the One who saves - near to you, available to you, and entirely for you.

“For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!” (Isaiah 9:6-7 NLT)