This week launched 21 Days of Prayer + Fasting 2024, and we began the year praying intentionally in the Scriptures. To get into this prayer mindset, read the words of the Psalmist: “One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple” (Ps. 27:4, NIV). Likewise, the author of Hebrews encouraged us to go right into the presence of God, to the most Holy place (Heb. 10:22).
Psalm 100 exhorts us to “enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise” (v.4). God’s presence is like the front door of prayer. We enter with praise and thanksgiving. How often have we hesitated to enter? Maybe because of shame, hardship or loss, or perhaps we feel unworthy to walk directly into God’s presence. For others, the idea of celebrating as you walk in just doesn’t match up to your present circumstances or feels inauthentic.
One of my daily prayers includes Psalm 103, where we remind our soul to bless the Lord and not forget what God has done for us. Even though there are seasons where joy and celebration are elusive, we can always come into God’s presence, reminding ourselves of what God has done for us. He saved us. He rescued us. He set us free. He lifted us up. He set our feet on the solid rock. He restored our soul.
As we continue to pray the Word, let’s enjoy God’s presence together. He loves us so much that He chose to live in us. We have constant access to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We don’t have to go anywhere or do anything special. His presence is a constant in our lives.
