PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD: Rejoice and Request!

May 13, 2025

True Worship Series: Lessons from the Psalms

Introduction

  • Third installment of the series.
  • Emphasis on worship as the happiest place on earth, surpassing even Disneyland.
  • Proper response to God is central to worship.

Definition of Worship

  • Worship is our response to who God is, what He has done, and our trust in His future work.

Psalm 139 Overview

  • Focus on God's omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence.
  • David's personal reflection and response to God's truths.

Practicing the Presence of God

  • Two ways to practice:
    • Rejoice: Be happy in God's presence.
    • Request: Bring petitions before God.

Rejoicing in God's Presence

  1. God Knows Me

    • Omniscience of God.
    • Intimate personal knowledge of us.
    • He knows our thoughts and motives.
    • God's knowledge makes us feel safe and loved.
  2. God is With Me

    • Omnipresence of God.
    • God is present everywhere, making us feel secure.
    • In darkest and toughest times, God's presence is comforting.
  3. God Made Me

    • We are fearfully and wonderfully made by God.
    • God’s creation is intricate and intentional.
    • Our lives are preordained and precious in God’s sight.

Testimony

  • Story of JP Ocampo, who overcame physical and emotional challenges through faith and worship.

Requesting in God’s Presence

  • Lord, Protect Me

    • Recognizing enemies of God as our own enemies.
    • Spiritual warfare requires God's power.
  • Lord, Lead Me

    • Prayer for God to search and know our hearts.
    • Request for guidance in living a life pleasing to God.

Application

  • Importance of intentional worship and living in the presence of God.
  • Encouragement to surrender fully to God and let Him lead our lives.

Conclusion

  • Reminder of God’s constant presence and love.
  • Encouragement to walk with God and rejoice in His presence.