7. presence

story

"Oh my daughter loves dogs. It's her birthday in a few weeks time and she's been practicing at home with a leash and collar for when she gets a real dog. If you ever want a dog sitter, we would love to help out."

"Are you actually going to get her a dog for her birthday?" I asked curiously.

"Yes, a robotic one!"

When my dog Kobe became part of my family, I made the decision to take hold of every opportunity share him with others, just like my friend first blessed me with her dog during covid. (In case you missed it, here's the story in a previous newsletter.) Practically, this results in numerous daily conversations with neighbours as they pat Kobe when he cheerfully wags his tail at kids and selective adults.

I guess a robotic one is better than nothing. But I had a better idea.

"EEEEEEEkkkkkkk, Mummy, look.. it's a dog!!!" We decided to drop around for a surprise visit. Maddie could hardly contain herself and was jumping around with delight as she opened the door. I gave her the lead and was squealing in excitement to take Kobe for a walk.

Kobe, on the other hand, seemed reluctant. He firmly sat on his bum, refusing to move ahead unless I was in his vision, walking closely with him and Maddie.

"This is the best pre-birthday present ever. Can Kobe stay with us for a few hours? Pleaseeeeee?"

devotional

In Exodus 33:3, God tells Moses - "Go up to the land flowing with milk and honey. But I will not go with you, because you are a stiff-necked people, and I might destroy you on the way.”

To summarise this part of the exodus story, God still plans to give the Israelites a land flowing with milk and honey... but due to their rebellion in worshipping a golden calf, God decides he won't be coming with them.

It is at this point that Moses reasons with God face to face as a friend would and pleads with God, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here." (Exodus 33:15)

Moses contends for God's presence. It seems like Moses would rather be with God than go to the promised land without his presence.

This interaction has been on my mind the last few weeks. I wonder, if I were put in the same situation, would I have done the same? Would I have chosen to be with God? Or would I be content with God's benefits and blessings without his presence? Do I seek God for his gifts and blessings?

​I wonder, have we lost the purpose of seeking Him just to be with Him?

quote

Oswald Chambers “My goal is God himself, not joy nor peace nor even blessing, but Himself, my God.”

question

In Psalm 103:2, David urges us to praise God for his benefits. However, do you seek God's benefits more than his presence?

prayer

Dear God,

​Please help me be open and responsive to you and your words. I'm sorry for my stubborn ways, for wanting to run life my own way. Please point out to me areas of my life where I've created idols—things and even people that I worship instead of you. Help me grow in my desire for your presence. I want you more than what you have abundantly blessed me with. Thank you for your patience and unending mercy and undeserved grace. Mold me so I can be truly and fully satisfied and fulfilled by your presence.

Amen

Have a great week.

Love,

p.s. This is a request for help from me! If you find this beneficial, would you help me by forwarding this email to your friends? I'm seeking to spread the word about being formed to people I don't personally know. If it's easier, they can also read this devotion online here and subscribe there if they like to read more. Thank you so much!!