DECEMBER 2021
FRIDAY DAY 10
COME TO THE THRONE OF GRACE (2)
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 4:16
Child of God, Psalm 42:1-2 says, “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so our soul should pant and long to be in God’s presence”. God created us to live in His presence. We should not allow any hurt, trial, sin, received blessings, or level attained in life make us neglect, hide from or get bored with God’s presence. Even when we have sinned, God is waiting with open arms to receive us into His presence (Luke 15: 20-22). Just as a fish cannot survive outside water and needs the water to thrive, we can’t survive these challenging and uncertain times outside of God’s presence. The more time we spend in His presence, the more we thrive and shine.
When we come into God’s presence we shall reap the following benefits: (1) There is joy in God’s presence. Are you sad, bitter, bored, sorrowful frustrated? Remember Psalm 16:11 “In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (2) We receive protection from dwelling in God’s presence. Staying in His presence brings us under His shadow of protection. Are you being attacked by evil agents, are there evil conspiracies against you? Are you threatened by insecurity of any kind? Remember Psalm 91:1 “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” (3) We find peace in His presence. Are you restless, troubled and disturbed by various challenges around you? Remember Exodus 33:14 “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” (4) God leads, guides and directs us as we spend time with Him. Are you in need of direction in your life and decisions? Do you need the Lord to guide you? Remember Psalm 73:23-24 “Nevertheless I am continually with You; You hold me by my right hand. You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.” (5) The fire and power of His presence melts away every mountain, every obstacle and hindrance before us and every satanic plan for our lives. Are there obstacles and mountain-like problems confronting you right now? Remember Psalm 97:5 “The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord.” And Isaiah 8:10 “Take counsel together, but it will come to nothing; speak the word, but it will not stand, for God is with us” (6) Our fears and insecurities, our pains and burdens are lifted/taken away as we come into God’s presence. Scripture says in Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”. (7) We are changed, refined and transformed in His presence. His presence takes away the chaff in our character and makes us better people.
MASS: VIOLET: ST. MILTIADES Is 48:17-19; Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6(R.Jn 8:12); Accl: The Lord is coming, run out to meet him; he is the prince of peace; Gospel Mt. 11:16-19
Prayer Point:
1. Praise and worship God with songs. And Pray with Psalm 38:22; 27:5 and 16:8
Exercise: Endeavour to visit the Chapel of Eucharistic Adoration or a church with Tabernacle at your convenient time, and spend at least 15 minutes in prayer and worship.
Meditation: Psalm 121:1-3