I am known as a good listener. I endeavor to impart godly advice. I am, howbeit, hesitant to share my innermost feelings. This combination of attributes creates one redeeming quality for me; the need for a special relationship with my Father God. He is very personal to me; not a far-off fable. I cherish His presence, yet I sense Him with me always. He is the one I lean on when going through life’s trials. When I need answers, guidance, healing, or relief from pain; I rely on Him. 

   I am grateful for the rich heritage that a godly upbringing provided for me. The glorious truth that I was granted access to God through Christ Jesus was instilled in me from a young age.  As a result of this conviction, I acquired a desire, a deep down longing to be with God. Wherever He was, I wanted to be there. Whatever it took to touch Him, I wanted to do it. I wanted to be around church people, in church meetings, around ministers and hang out in churches. I loved conversation about God, worship music, the Word of God and the things of God. Those things were precious to me. They brought a degree of the presence of God that changed the atmosphere. God came into the place, and I knew it. I did not want to miss that experience.  

   My awareness of God accompanying me grew. The measure of His residence increased with worship, prayer, and His Word. As I devoted myself to linger in God’s presence, I understood what King David spoke about in Psalms 27. This scripture holds a special place in my heart. It expresses my adoration for Him but furthermore reminds me of the yearning of Father God to meet my every need. He wants to be my place of security from a world of hurt.

   Psalm 27:4-5 (KJV)  One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.

   God delights in our eagerness to seek after Him. When we draw close to Him, His mercy and goodness are demonstrated to us by knowledge of His great love for us. When we encounter that love; His presence, His beauty; fear departs, forgiveness flows, and the Word of God becomes alive. This is where we find comfort and communion. The One in whom we trust reveals that He is Love.   

   My joy is that you would acknowledge Father God, seek His advice about the challenges in life and realize His great love for you through the sacrifice of His only Son Jesus. Embrace the opportunity to gaze into the beauty of the Lord and be consumed by His presence.