SEEKING GOD’S PRESENCE ABOVE POSITION

SEEKING GOD’S PRESENCE ABOVE POSITION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Chronicles 13:1-5

Supporting Texts: Psalm 27:4; Exodus 33:14-15; Matthew 6:33; 2 Samuel 6:1-12; Hebrews 10:19-22

INTRODUCTION:
Many people today chase after positions, power, and visibility, forgetting the most important priority—God's presence. In our fast-paced world, it is tempting to pursue influence over intimacy with God, yet we must remember that divine presence is the foundation for lasting success and peace.
David, though already established as king, did not first focus on consolidating political strength; he chose to bring back the Ark of God, which symbolised God's presence. His decision revealed that true leadership and fulfilment in life begin with intimacy with the Almighty.
This study calls us to reflect deeply on our personal motives and ministry priorities. Do we want God's presence, or do we want people’s applause? Are we building altars or platforms? Are we pursuing encounters or engagements?

1. TRUE GREATNESS IS FOUND IN GOD’S PRESENCE
When we seek God first, He gives us everything else we need.

a) God’s presence is the source of all wisdom and strength
Those who carry His presence walk in supernatural insight and divine empowerment (Exodus 31:1-3).

b) Position without presence is powerless and dangerous
Saul had the throne, but he had lost God’s presence and was tormented (1 Samuel 16:14).

c) God is more interested in relationship than titles
He desires hearts that long for Him, not just hands that work for Him (Psalm 42:1-2).

d) The presence of God brings divine direction and stability
Without God, we labour in vain and build on shaky ground (Psalm 127:1).

Biblical Example:
Moses refused to lead the people without God's presence. He said, “If Your presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here” (Exodus 33:14-15). He understood that the promised land meant nothing without the presence of the One who promised it.

2. PRIORITISING GOD ATTRACTS UNITY AND FAVOUR
When the leader's heart is right, the people follow with joy and loyalty.

a) David consulted the people, but the focus was God
Though he gathered leaders, his purpose was to restore the Ark, not his own influence (1 Chronicles 13:1-3).

b) Honour for God unites hearts in divine purpose
Unity flourishes when God is the centre of every decision and movement (Acts 2:1).

c) God blesses those who elevate Him above personal ambition
When He is lifted, He draws men and releases favour (John 12:32).

d) A God-first mentality sustains lasting leadership
Human strength fades, but divine favour preserves (1 Samuel 2:30).

Biblical Example:
When Solomon placed the Ark in the Temple and offered prayers of dedication, the glory of God filled the house (2 Chronicles 5:13-14). The leaders and people were united under a divine atmosphere, and God confirmed their worship with His tangible presence.

CONCLUSION:
Every believer must make the conscious choice to seek God's presence above every other pursuit. Our lives are more fruitful, our leadership more effective, and our relationships more peaceful when God is truly at the centre.
David's example teaches us that even in power, we must hunger for God. Our positions should never replace our pursuit. God is seeking those who long for Him more than for promotion, and when He finds such hearts, He releases His glory.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, ignite in me an unquenchable hunger for Your presence.
2. Father, deliver me from seeking position over Your presence.
3. Holy Spirit, teach me to prioritise intimacy with God daily.
4. Every idol in my heart competing with God, be dethroned in Jesus’ name.
5. Lord, raise leaders in this generation who value Your presence.
6. Let my life attract divine favour through passionate worship.
7. Father, make me a carrier of Your presence everywhere I go.
8. I reject spiritual dryness; I choose consistent fellowship with You.
9. Lord, give me wisdom to lead people with a God-first focus.
10. Let Your glory rest upon my life, family, and ministry.