“God Is Very Present”

One of God’s attributes is omnipresence.  Simply stated, He is everywhere present.  The psalmist wrote, ‘Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? 8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!” (Psalm 139:7-8).  Isaac Watts ended his great hymn, I Sing the Mighty Power of God, with the words, “And everywhere that man can be, Thou, God art present there.”

The doctrine of God’s omnipresence is both devastating and comforting.  It is devastating to the unrighteous who might think their sinful practices escape the gaze of the Almighty.  But God not only sees them, He will also hold them accountable.  To the righteous or child of God this doctrine brings great comfort.  Our Lord is not only always and everywhere present; He is ever present with us!  Psalm 46 says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”  We need never fear in even the most dire of circumstances.  He is not only a strong refuge to protect us, but He will also give us the strength to endure the severest of trials.  May we know that He is God, and exalt Him with praise!