Attending worship on Sundays or weekly small groups isn’t the only way to experience God’s presence, but in the thick of a busy schedule and everyday obligations, sometimes it feels that way. The truth is, God wants to experience your busy life beside you through the good and hard times.
Read on to learn more about how to experience the glory of God in life’s everyday moments.
In the Overwhelming Moments
Life has a habit of steering us into conditions that just feel like way more than we can handle. It’s human nature to want to control our surroundings, our and others’ emotions, the circumstances, and the outcome of every situation. No wonder we’re so anxious and stressed! We can’t control it all, but the good news is that we weren’t designed to.
Reflect on Philippians 4:6-7:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
In the stressful overwhelm, humbly cry out to God. Let Him know how you’re struggling. Isaiah 26:3 says that when we train our minds to stay on God, He keeps us in perfect peace. Even so, that doesn’t mean we should expect a perfect life! Psalm 94:18-19 says that we’re not promised a life without hardship. But when our feet slip, when our hearts are heavy, He’s there to carry us through it.
In Your Failures
Striving for perfection in every area of life is exhausting, not to mention impossible. We mess up. We hurt others. Our plans fall through. When we’re faced with the consequences, it’s easy to dwell in defeat, perceive ourselves as failures, and think we’ve sabotaged our spiritual life. Isaiah 55:1-3 reiterates a perfect truth: there is nothing we can do to buy or earn God’s love, grace, and forgiveness.
Reflect on Micah 7:8:
“Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.”
We will inevitably fail, fall, and sit in darkness throughout our lives. The Bible says we all fall short! But Ephesians 2:8-9 also says that we are saved not through our actions or good works but through our faith in God’s grace. We can’t earn His free gifts of grace and forgiveness by being more religious. When you fail, rest assured that you’re not disqualified from receiving His mercy.
In the Ordinary and Tired Days
Sometimes insecurity can make us think our troubles aren’t big enough or worthy of bringing to God. We’re just tired from work, parenting, school, and routine. But you don’t have to be in crisis to learn how to experience God’s presence and feel the love and peace of God.
Reflect on Psalm 23:1-3:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”
God meets us in the mundane moments of our lives, too. Being burned out and overstimulated will actually show us how to experience God’s perfect love. He wants to provide us with peace and rest even in the small, unremarkable days. Matthew 11:28 says that all you need to do is come to Him, and He will give you rest.
As You Keep Growing
Experiencing God’s glory isn’t about reaching a final destination or following a step-by-step blueprint. He reveals His character in intimate ways through our ordinary choices, like finding time to read the Bible. And when you look back on your journey, you’ll notice He’s been with you every step of the way.
Reflect on 2 Corinthians 3:18:
“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.”
You probably won’t witness a burning bush or thunderous voice from above on your walk with Christ. But Scripture says that you will be transformed by the renewal of your mind. Trials and hardships are a part of life, but God is always with us. We can rely on Him and experience his love and forgiveness.
God Meets You Where You Are
Remember, God doesn’t keep a running tally of how many church services you attend or Bible verses you memorize. Understanding how to experience God’s peace starts with building a true relationship with Him. And you’re not alone, either. God shows us in Scripture that the Holy Spirit is present at all times.
When you’re lost, confused, overwhelmed, or tired, bring your struggles to God. Sit in quiet conversation with Him. He doesn’t need dramatic moments and grand gestures, just your time and attention.
King of Kings Lutheran Church in Woodbury, MN, is ready to welcome first-time visitors and provide fellowship for those returning. Our community supports and strengthens others, no matter where you are in your walk with Christ. Whether you’re returning to the church after a long time away or you’re simply looking for your church home, there’s a place for you at King of Kings.