I speak the name of Jesus over my circumstances, knowing that at His name, demons must flee.
I’ve been pressing in lately to God’s wisdom, comfort, and peace. It’s a slower pace than I’m used to, and I’m prone to distraction, but the more I press in, the more I’m assured of God’s faithful, loving presence.
Author Arlene Pelican writes, “Human hearts are prone to wander, but God’s heart is always toward you. You are never alone or abandoned.” I love the thought of God’s heart leaning toward us, extending love and grace beyond measure. Though our flesh is tempted to pull away, He remains steadfast, always by our side.
In Psalm 139:17-18, David says, “How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me!” (NLT).
Even when it seems like God has forgotten you, and you feel far away from His presence, I encourage you to press in. Ask, seek, and knock. Lean not on your own understanding but rely on His promises. The Bible assures us that when we draw near to God, He draws near to us (James 4:8). This is a promise you can count on.
Here are a few more things to remember as you keep pressing in:
It’s More About Rest
Pressing “on” involves putting one foot in front of the other, while pressing “in” is more about rest. It’s laying our weary heads on the Father’s shoulder and letting Him wrap us in the robe of His righteousness and peace.
In Matthew 11:28, Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This gracious invitation is open to all who are weary and heavy laden, yet, so often, we feel unworthy to enter the throne room “again.”
Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” You, my friend, are welcome at God’s throne, accepted, wanted, and beloved. There’s no rejection at the throne of grace, only invitation.
This week, spend a few extra moments in prayer, envisioning Isaiah 6:1, which says, “I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple.” Imagine yourself opening the large wooden doors of Solomon’s temple and stepping inside. You follow the train of God’s pure, white robe leading to His throne. He welcomes you as a Father welcomes his child and invites you to rest in His presence. Here are a few comforting verses to take with you:
“The Lord replied, ‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.’” Exodus 33:14
“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Psalm 46:10 (ESV)
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Lord, thank You for the open invitation to enter Your throne room with confidence and trust. Help me sit at Your feet without distraction, pressing into Your promise of rest and peace. In Jesus’ holy name, amen.
It’s Also Intentional
Pressing in requires intentionality. Without it, we’re likely to drift away and float through dark seasons without purpose. But by implementing a few spiritual disciplines such as meditating on the Word, praising God in the storm, and reclaiming what we know to be true, we’ll learn to press in even more.
Decide on one spiritual practice for the next 30 days and notice how it strengthens your faith. Here are a few simple ideas:
-Read Psalm 23 every morning, committing it to memory.
-Listen to worship songs or Bible meditations before you fall asleep.
-Take short prayer walks at lunch.
-Cut your media time in half and replace it with Bible reading and journaling.
Pressing in is a decision. It’s making God a priority and reaping the benefits. Which discipline will you implement this week? Here are a few Bible verses to incorporate:
“Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!” 1 Chronicles 16:11
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
Lord, You know how much I struggle with spiritual disciplines. My flesh would rather spend time on mindless things. Please draw me into Your holy presence as I open Your Word, meditate on Your truth, and worship You with all my heart. Increase my intentionality and help me find a new routine of pressing into Your holiness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It’s Safe
I joke with my kids that my love language is “safety,” but there’s a lot of truth to it. Even as a child, I tried to protect my little brother from any perceived harm. And as I raised my own family, I often defaulted to overprotecting them. Now, as a grandparent, many of my prayers revolve around their safety and well-being.
Pressing into God’s sovereignty is our only true security. He is our refuge in this uncertain world, and He is still on His throne. Proverbs 18:10 says, “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (NKJV).
As you navigate difficult challenges, envision the name of the Lord as a radiant lighthouse positioned in the middle of the storm. The light of Jesus beckons you to safety – the safety of His presence. Here are more Bible verses for peace and protection:
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’” Psalm 91:1-2
“No weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and their vindication from me, declares the Lord.” Isaiah 54:17
Lord, in the safety of Your presence is where I want to be. I press into Your divine protection, releasing all fear and worry. Thank You for being my refuge and fortress, the One in whom I trust. I speak the name of Jesus over my circumstances, knowing that at His name, demons must flee. Help me turn to Your light in this dark world, running to You, my strong tower. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.
More Resources for Your Journey:
How to Be Persistent in Prayer
A Prayer for Relying on God Instead of Our Efforts
When You’ve Wandered Away from God
A Promise of Rest
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Cecilie_Arcurs
