The Divine Presence With Us Always, February 25

God's Character and Providences

Whither shall I go from thy Spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. Psalm 139:7, 8.FLB 62.1

The psalmist represents the presence of the Infinite One as pervading the universe. “If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.” We can never find a solitude where God is not.^{117SDA Bible Commentary 3:1153, 1154.}FLB 62.2

The Lord God omnipotent, who reigneth in the heavens, declares, “I am with you.” He assures His people that those who are obedient are in a position where He can bless them, to the glory of His name.... He will be a present help to all who serve Him in preference to serving self.^{118The Review and Herald, December 12, 1907.}FLB 62.3

Although God dwells not in temples made with hands, yet He honors with His presence the assemblies of His people. He has promised that when they come together to seek Him, to acknowledge their sins, and to pray for one another, He will meet with them by His Spirit.^{119Prophets and Kings, 50.}FLB 62.4

When Christ ascended to heaven, the sense of His presence was still with His followers. It was a personal presence, full of love and light....FLB 62.5

Henceforth through the Spirit, Christ was to abide continually in the hearts of the children. Their union with Him was closer than when He was personally with them. The light, and love, and power of the indwelling Christ shone out through them, so that men, beholding, “marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.” Acts 4:13. All that Christ was to the disciples, He desires to be to His children today.^{120Steps to Christ, 73-75.}FLB 62.6

We may be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Receiving Christ, we are clothed with power. An indwelling Saviour makes His power our property.... Christ's presence in the heart is a vitalizing power, strengthening the entire being.^{121Testimonies for the Church 7:71.}FLB 62.7

Never feel that Christ is far away. He is always near. His loving presence surrounds you.^{122The Ministry of Healing, 85.}FLB 62.8