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In the desert, the Israelites set up a tent where anyone could meet God. Despite it being for all, the Bible mentions only Moses and Joshua going in. While the people stood at a distance and watched, they met God. And even after Moses left, Joshua stayed (Exodus 33:7-11).

In the New Testament, Mary did the same. When Jesus came to her home, she could have easily been compelled to serve. But instead, she sat at His feet, listening and enjoying Him. Jesus said she had chosen what was better (Luke 10:38-42).

Both stories show what it means to linger in God’s presence, to enjoy being with Him. As a staff, we’re great at passionately asking God to act. But do we enjoy simply being with Him? God is the inventor of joy. He created fun, laughter and delight. Time with Him can be the richest, most satisfying part of our lives. The psalmist said that in His presence is where joy is fullest (Psalm 16:11). But how do we experience this kind of intimacy?

Intimacy starts with desire.

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.
My soul thirsts for God… When can I go and meet with God? (Psalm 42:1-2)

One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. (Psalm 27:4)

If this kind of longing isn’t in your heart yet, start there. Ask God to awaken it in you.

Come to Him expecting to meet Him.

When you meet a friend, you expect them to be there and connect with you. Come to God the same way—expecting to meet Him. He promises to come!

  • Come near to God and He will come near to you. (James 4:8)
  • Seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Matthew 7:7)
  • I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. (Revelation 3:20)

Seek Him wholeheartedly.

When you spend time with God, be fully present. Silence your phone and your thoughts. Set your mind and heart on God. And ask Him to show you more of Himself.

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:13)

You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you;
I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you,
in a dry and parched land where there is no water. (Psalm 63:1)

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