“The fact that our star-breathing God looks upon this pebble of a planet and takes great care to know about every detail of our lives is invitation enough to seek Him in ways you and I never have before.”- Susie Larson
“And so I walk in the LORD’s presence as I live here on earth.”- Psalm 116:9 (Susie’s life verse)
In her Introduction (“God Is Here”) to Closer Than Your Next Breath: Where is God When You Need Him Most?, Susie Larson underscores that God cares deeply about every detail of your life. Nothing makes Him feel indifferent.
Yet, Susie stresses, there’s one way for us to live with peace, joy, and a sense of holy expectation. We must show a willingness to embrace the mysteries of God. Certainly, we cannot fully explain suffering this side of heaven. However, God keeps Satan on a short leash. Thus, a limit to our battles exists.
Above all, Susie observes, the Bible tells us that, in God’s presence, we:
- find the fullness of joy (God’s strength = our superpower).
- receive correction, direction, comfort, and assurance.
- experience the clarity God brings to our confusion, hope in the place of despair.
Therefore, Susie counsels:
“There’s nothing like God’s presence. Maybe that’s why we sometimes chase the sensational but miss the supernatural. . . . In the process, might we rush right by the nuanced, miraculous ways God is showing up in our stories? . . .
Let’s agree that God’s presence isn’t a static, unmoving entity stuck in inertia. His presence is a force. It’s powerful, moving, flowing, and breathing life into all creation.”
Consequently, when the soldiers came to arrest Jesus in Gethsemane, He identified Himself as Jesus the Nazarene. Most significantly, the sheer power flowing from Jesus’ words knocked many of the soldiers off their feet. Hence, Jesus proved that He freely gave His life. The soldiers didn’t take it.
Today’s question: What does it mean to you that Jesus lovingly looks upon this pebble of a planet? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: Reminiscent experiences: re-create?”
