Pervasive presence

I Chronicles 14:14 “The ark of God remained with the family of Obed-Edom in his house for three months, and the Lord blessed his household and everything he had.” (NIV)*

Begonia (photo by Patty Perkins)

I can’t help but wonder what Obed-Edom’s household was like before the ark of God came for a visit. We do know that once the ark was there, the Lord blessed his household and everything he had.

What difference would it make if we invited the presence of the Lord to dwell with us. What if we acknowledged him as Lord each day and lived that way. Beyond the legalistic trying to do everything right. Beyond lists of rules and people pleasing. Beyond the limiting chains of perfectionism. Not striving for a perfect life but walking in his presence.

Perfectionism strangles life. Presence gives life.

And then I’m reminded that he dwells in human hearts. As unbelievable as it sounds, that’s what he calls home. This, my heart. That’s where he longs to dwell. Just maybe the difference in my outward home begins in my inward heart.

Lord, do come,

dwell and abide–

take up residence, today.

…..

Lord, make changes,

cleanse and purify–

equip for lasting purposes.

…..

Lord, erase perfectionism,

restore and replace–

with pervasive presence.

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by Patty Perkins

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*The One Year Bible, July 12, New International Version, copyright 1986, Tyndale House Publishers, Wheaton, Illinois.