A friend of mine, who happens to be a pastor, shared something I've been pondering of late. He said we need to live between God's authority and God's presence and when we do we're walking the "narrow way" that Jesus described to his followers in Matthew 7:13-14
There is so much between those "places".
All authority in heaven and earth has been given to Jesus and He's living in me (and you if you have allowed him in). [Matthew 28:18] Stop and ponder that thought a minute or two! Wow! That means we have the opportunity and authority to do ANYTHING He directs us to do for His kingdom and His purposes - including loving well, giving generously, obeying His directions for us, trusting Him and on and on. Think about times when you've had authority - even on the playground as a kid - and ask God how you were different on the inside. What would you be able to do today if you felt that same power that is good and godly because if flows from God Himself in you?
God's presence is such a peaceful refreshing place. That is where I go to refresh my soul. It is the ONLY place to truly "get centered". I connect with God in constant conversation (both LISTENING and talking with Him) throughout the day. I engage God because He is with me all the time. He's always there, I'm the one that needs to remember that fact! [Hebrews 13:5, Psalm 139 especially v.7]
There is also tension living between the two. Authority implies direction and action. Presence implies simply being. Living well with God in this world will require both.
(Thanks, Ken Wilson!)
So right on, Linda. We can't thrive (or go forward!) with only one wing of the airplane. This also reminds me of all that Jesus said about abiding. It's a resting place, but it's also an obediently doing place, because that's the nature of life flowing through us in a fruit-bearing way. BTW, I like your watercolor background!
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