We live in a world that constantly pulls us in different directions. The noise of our schedules, responsibilities, and digital devices can be overwhelming. Yet, amid the distractions, God invites us into something far greater – His loving, peaceful presence.

How can we learn to be truly present with the God who is always present to us?

The Bible is filled with reminders of God’s presence. Psalm 46:10 urges us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” This simple invitation calls us to quiet our hearts and recognise His sovereignty. To be still is not just about physical silence but a posture of surrender—acknowledging that God is near and actively working in our lives.

In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus extends another invitation: “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.

Notice how He doesn’t call us to a place or a specific ritual but to Himself. Jesus longs for us to bring our full selves—joys, burdens, and distractions—to Him. And as we walk with Him, learning from Him to become like Him, He will teach us the unforced rhythms of grace.

Being present with God starts with intentionality. Here are a few practical ways to grow that connection:

  1. Pause and Pray: Begin your day by acknowledging God’s presence. It can be as simple as saying, “Good morning, Lord. I know You are here with me.” Throughout the day, return to this awareness by pausing for short prayers of gratitude or petition. When life gets hectic, these brief moments of connection help realign our hearts.
  2. Savour Scripture: God speaks to us through His Word. Reading even a short passage can ground your thoughts in His truth. Consider meditating on verses like Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” or Psalm 16:11 “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence”. Allow the living Word to remind you that God is near.
  3. Practice Silence and Solitude: Set aside time to sit quietly with God, free from distractions. This might feel uncomfortable at first, but over time, you’ll learn to recognize His gentle whispers. Remember Elijah on Mount Horeb (1 Kings 19:11-13) who encountered God not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. Silence can open the door to deeper intimacy with God.
  4. Gratitude Journaling: Writing down moments where you see God’s faithfulness helps cultivate awareness of His presence. What blessings, big or small, have you noticed today? Reflecting on these journal entries over time reveals a pattern of God’s goodness and provision.
  5. Worship: Sing songs, whether alone or with others, that declare God’s goodness. Music often lifts our hearts to a place of deeper communion with Him. Whether in joyful praise or quiet adoration, worship draws us closer to God.
  6. Practice being aware of His Presence: As you go about your daily tasks, remind yourself that God is with you. Whether you’re washing dishes, driving to work, or spending time with loved ones, whisper a prayer of gratitude or acknowledgment. This awareness transforms mundane moments into sacred ones.

One of the most beautiful truths of our faith is that God is Emmanuel — “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). He never leaves us nor forsakes us (Deuteronomy 31:6). His presence is constant, even when we feel distant. The challenge for us is to grow into always seeking and recognising Him in all circumstances.

Brother Lawrence, who wrote ‘The Practice of the Presence of God’ said “As nice as the idea of being with Jesus sounds, it will remain nothing more than a shallow spiritual sentimentality until we accept that abiding is not a technique by which we control our relationship with God, but it is a skill.”

And each one of us can do it – remember that Brother Lawrence wasn’t a priest, he was a dishwasher in a monastery in 17th century Paris. He made it his life’s ambition to experience God in the chaos of the kitchen, with all its noise, distraction and busyness. He wrote that whether he was in the noise of the kitchen or on his knees in prayer – he had come to a place where his life was a seamless, integrated whole, grounded in God’s presence.

As you go through this week, I encourage you to take small but intentional steps to be present with the One who is always present to you. In doing so, you will find that His presence transforms even the ordinary into something sacred. May you experience His peace, joy, and abiding love as you walk each day with Him.

Much love
Michelle