Here it is November 28, the day after our Nation celebrates Thanksgiving. I hope you all enjoyed your holiday and took time to reflect on what it is you are thankful for. But now that Thanksgiving 
Day is over, I hope you are still thankful. I spent a wonderful time with my family. I slept in and when I awakened, the house was fragranced with the scent of my Mom’s food. It is good to be home. Not just because of Mom’s turkey, dressing, Sweet potato pies…, no that’s all good (those who are fortunate enough to eat at my Mom’s table know that she is the best cook on the planet!) but there’s just something about being home for me- something about being in the presence of folks who you know love you no matter what- folks that you know have your best interest at heart- folks that you know will fight for you if needed-there is a sense of peace and even a sense of safety here dwelling in the presence of home.
Yes, for me, it just feels good to come home. No, it’s not perfect but it’s home. For some reason it just feels easier to breathe. It’s easier to rest. It’s easier to think. It’s easier to be me. Ahhh… home.
Life can be tough. Every day we endure people, places, things and ordeals that challenge and oppose who we are and what we believe. Locally we go to work and face stress on the job. We face other people’s expectations. We face bad news. We see hurting people. Isn’t it nice to have a safe place to retreat-a place where you are reminded that everything is going to be all right- a place where you are reminded that you can walk out this journey and come out on top- a place that reminds you that you can have peace and joy even when the world seems to be having a nervous breakdown. What a wonderful dwelling place.
I am reminded of Psalms 91 which states, “He that dwells in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide under the Shadow of the Almighty.” There are benefits to dwelling in the presence of God. There is safety. There is joy. There is favor. There is strength there. There is peace. There is understanding. There is rest. There is provision. There is identity there. There is freedom. The presence of God is an awesome place but we must remember to dwell there. Sometimes, after experiencing difficult moments or whatever, I have to consciously remind myself of my “dwelling place.”
I want to challenge you to consciously dwell in the presence of God. Find time to get into the Word of God and remind yourself of God’s greatness and His promises and provision for you. Find time during the day to retreat to a quiet spot and say, “Lord, here I am, talk to me, deal with me, reveal Yourself to me in a new way.” If you’re facing difficult situations or any situation, talk to Him about it. Just be you. He knows you. He sees what no one else can. It may feel strange at first like when you move into a new place. You have to get used to the new atmosphere- the new view. It’s like going from the garden level to the penthouse. It’s just a totally different view and experience. I dare you to try it.
Also check out the following scriptures during the next day or two to remind you about God’s presence: Psalms 16:11, Psalms 31:19-20, Psalms 34:18-19, Psalms 46:1, Psalms 95;2-3, Psalms 100:25, Psalms 140: 13 and Psalms 91.
Until next time, stay encouraged and stay in God’s presence!
Wendy M. Reynolds
