GOD IS ALWAYS WITH US
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 28:20
"Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
Supporting Texts: Isaiah 41:10, Deuteronomy 31:6, Psalm 23:4, Hebrews 13:5, Joshua 1:9
INTRODUCTION
One of the greatest assurances in the Christian life is that God is always with us. No matter the situation we face—joy or sorrow, abundance or need, peace or storm—God never abandons His own. His presence brings comfort, strength, and victory.
From the beginning of creation, God’s desire has been to dwell with His people. Even when Adam and Eve sinned, God made a plan for redemption so that humanity could be restored to His presence. Through Jesus Christ, we have the full assurance that God is not only with us but also in us.
This study will explore the reality of God's presence in our lives, how He manifests His presence, and how we can cultivate an awareness of His nearness in every season.
1. GOD'S PRESENCE BRINGS COURAGE IN DIFFICULT TIMES
God's presence is the source of our confidence in the face of trials and uncertainties.
a) God Was with Moses and Joshua
Moses led Israel by God's presence, and God assured Joshua that He would be with him just as He was with Moses (Joshua 1:9).
b) God Strengthened Gideon for Battle
Even when Gideon doubted himself, God assured him of His presence, leading him to victory (Judges 6:12-16).
c) God Was with Paul in His Trials
Despite many persecutions, Paul was strengthened by the knowledge of God's abiding presence (Acts 18:9-10).
d) God Was with the Three Hebrew Boys in the Fire
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego experienced God’s presence even in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:24-25).
e) Biblical Example: David’s Confidence in God's Presence (Psalm 23:4)
David declared that even in the valley of the shadow of death, he would not fear because God was with him.
2. GOD'S PRESENCE BRINGS PROTECTION AND DELIVERANCE
The presence of God is our shield against the attacks of the enemy.
a) God Delivered Israel from Egypt
God’s presence went before the Israelites as a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22).
b) God Protected Daniel in the Lion’s Den
Daniel was not harmed because God was with him, shutting the lions’ mouths (Daniel 6:22).
c) God Sent Angels to Guard His People
Angels are assigned to protect those who trust in God (Psalm 91:11-12).
d) Jesus Rescued Peter from Drowning
Even when Peter’s faith wavered, Jesus was there to lift him up (Matthew 14:29-31).
e) Biblical Example: Elisha and the Heavenly Army (2 Kings 6:16-17)
Elisha reassured his servant that God’s presence surrounded them with an unseen army of angels.
3. GOD'S PRESENCE BRINGS PEACE AND COMFORT
When God is with us, we can have peace even in the midst of life’s storms.
a) Jesus is the Prince of Peace
His presence brings peace beyond human understanding (Isaiah 9:6, Philippians 4:7).
b) God Comforts the Brokenhearted
He is near to those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18).
c) Jesus Calmed the Storm
When the disciples were afraid, Jesus demonstrated His authority over the storm (Mark 4:39).
d) The Holy Spirit is Our Comforter
Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would be with us always to strengthen and guide us (John 14:16-17).
e) Biblical Example: Paul’s Encouragement in Prison (Acts 16:25-26)
Even in chains, Paul and Silas worshipped, and God's presence brought an earthquake that set them free.
4. GOD'S PRESENCE BRINGS GUIDANCE AND DIRECTION
When we acknowledge God's presence, He leads us in the right path.
a) God Led Israel with a Cloud and Fire
He provided clear direction for His people in the wilderness (Exodus 40:36-38).
b) The Holy Spirit Guides Us Into All Truth
Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would lead us in His will (John 16:13).
c) God Ordered the Steps of Joseph
Even through betrayal and imprisonment, God directed Joseph’s journey to his destiny (Genesis 50:20).
d) God Revealed His Will to Samuel
Samuel heard God's voice because he remained close to His presence (1 Samuel 3:10).
e) Biblical Example: The Wise Men Led by the Star (Matthew 2:9-10)
God's presence guided the wise men to Jesus through a star.
5. HOW TO REMAIN AWARE OF GOD'S PRESENCE
We must cultivate a lifestyle that continually acknowledges God's nearness.
a) Spend Time in Prayer and Worship
Prayer keeps us connected to God’s presence (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
b) Meditate on God's Word
God’s Word reminds us of His constant presence (Joshua 1:8).
c) Walk in Holiness and Obedience
Sin separates us from God’s presence, but obedience draws us closer (Isaiah 59:2).
d) Stay Connected to the Body of Christ
Fellowship with other believers strengthens our awareness of God’s presence (Hebrews 10:25).
e) Biblical Example: Enoch Walked with God (Genesis 5:24)
Enoch lived in such close fellowship with God that he was taken directly to heaven.
CONCLUSION
God's presence is a powerful reality that every believer must embrace. He is with us in every situation—whether we face trials, need protection, seek peace, or desire direction. His presence assures us that we are never alone.
If you feel distant from God, remember that He has not left you. He is always near, waiting for you to acknowledge Him. Draw near to Him in prayer, worship, and obedience, and you will experience His presence in new and profound ways.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, help me to remain conscious of Your presence always.
2. Lord, let Your presence go before me in all that I do.
3. Father, deliver me from every fear and doubt, knowing that You are with me.
4. Lord, surround me with divine protection at all times.
5. Father, fill my heart with Your peace in every situation.
6. Holy Spirit, guide me in every decision I make.
7. Lord, let me never be separated from Your presence.
8. Father, give me the grace to dwell in Your presence daily.
9. Lord, let Your presence bring breakthroughs in my life.
10. I declare that I will walk in the fullness of God’s presence all my days!
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS
1. The presence of God will go with you wherever you go!
2. You will never walk alone—God is by your side!
3. Every battle against your life is already won because God is with you!
4. The peace of God will flood your heart and mind!
5. You will not be confused—God’s presence will guide you!
6. No weapon formed against you shall prosper, for God is your shield!
7. You will experience divine encounters with God’s presence!
8. Fear and anxiety are leaving your life because God is your refuge!
9. God’s presence will open doors of favour for you!
10. You will dwell in the presence of God forever and ever!
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