LESSON ONE
TEXT: Genesis 28:10-19
Jehovah Shammah means the Lord is there – Ezek. 48:35b, the ever-present God or ever available God – Ex.33:14 – and the Omnipresent. He was there with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Moses – Gen.28:15; Gen.31:3; Ex.3:12. He was present with small groups of people e.g. Moses, Miriam and Aaron in Numbers 12:5 and the disciples on the way to Emmaus, in Luke 24:13-15, 31 and Matthew 18:20. He was there with large groups of people – Ex.14:15; Ex.29:45; Acts 2:1-4. He is there today and tomorrow – Heb.13:8. He is there with you always – Matt.28:20.
The blessings of God’s presence are numerous. Some of them are:
• Rest and peace in the time of war – Ex.33:14.
• Courage in the face of defeat or problems of life – Deut.20:1.
• Comfort in the time of sorrow or trials – Isa.43:1-5.
The presence of the Almighty God is often accompanied with love, grace, mercy and favour – 1 Jn.4:8; Dan.3:19-30; Heb.12:6-11. His presence can also mean judgement to those who violate His commandments – Num.12:9-10; Ezek.4:1-4; Dan.3:14-26. He is full of grace but at the same time He is a consuming fire – Heb.12:29.
The ever-present God is full of love and compassion for those who obey His commandments. To those who violate His laws, His presence will surely bring judgement. Therefore, let us serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear – Heb.12:28.
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