Post by tomdurst on Mar 4, 2006 18:02:13 GMT -5
THE ONLY REQUIREMENT
I honestly cannot understand how people who claim to love the Lord can be content without practicing His presence. My preference is to retire with Him to the deepest part of my soul as often as possible. When I am with Him there, nothing frightens me. But the slightest diversion away from Him is painful to me.
Spending time in God’s presence doesn’t weaken the body. Leaving the seemingly innocent and permissible pleasures of the world for a time will, on the contrary, give us comfort. In fact, God won’t allow a soul that is searching for Him to be comforted anywhere other than with Him. So it makes sense to sacrifice ourselves for some time in His presence.
This does not mean that you have to suffer in this endeavor. No, God must be served with holy freedom. He should labor faithfully, without distress or anxiety, calmly recalling our spirit to God whenever it is distracted.
The only requirement is that we place our confidence entirely in God. Abandon any other concerns, including any special devotions you’ve undertaken simply as a means to an end. God is “end.” If we are diligently practicing His presence, we shouldn’t need our former “means.” We can continue our exchange of love with Him by just remaining in His holy presence. Adore Him and praise Him! There are so many ways we can thank Him. The Holy Spirit dwelling in us leads us to love God in a diversity of ways.
God be with all of you.
The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence pp. 31, 32.
For nearly 300 years this unparalleled classic has given both blessing and instruction to those who can be content with nothing less than knowing God in all His majesty and feeling His loving presence throughout each simple day.
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