Cultivating the Garden of God’s Presence

I drove through a neighborhood yesterday and saw several yards that were overgrown with weeds. The weeds had grown so wild, they left no trace of what was there before. In direct contrast, this tree-lined street also featured elegant homes with perfectly manicured lawns and beautiful flowerbeds that dazzled the eyes. All of a sudden, I was struck by how this disparity clearly relates to our relationship with God. Neglected gardens are unattractive to gaze upon and impossible to keep hidden. Eventually, if you fail to tend your relationship with God, the consequences are present in almost every area of your life.  You’ll look around for the joy you once had but discover it’s no longer there. Left in its place is a life that’s become chaotic and unfruitful. Peace eludes you and challenges seem insurmountable. Before long, you realize that your life has become a dry and desolate place. 

Whenever I stray from God and neglect my garden, I feel like a child hiding from my parents after committing an infraction – tiptoeing around, fearful of getting in trouble. Inwardly, I think I’m getting away with something, but in reality I’m creating a wasteland that I will eventually have to walk through. God does not want our lives to be filled with desolation and despair; He wants us to be filled with the joy and fulfillment that comes from spending time in His presence. The most breathtaking moments of my life have been the moments I’ve spent in the presence of God; when it’s just Him and me alone together. Nothing compares to the joy of being with God, it is a level of joy that is far beyond our human ability to produce. 

“You will show me the path of life; in your presence is fullness of joy, at your right hand there are pleasures forever more.“ Psalm 16:11

Excerpt from Now is the Time to Worship