Awakening to God's Presence Genesis 28:16
Genesis 28:16 (NLT): "Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, 'Surely the LORD is in this place, and I wasn’t even aware of it!'"
Introduction:
Today, we delve into Genesis 28:16, a powerful verse where Jacob awakens to the reality of God's presence. This moment of realization transforms Jacob's understanding of God and his own life. As we explore this passage, we will uncover how we too can awaken to God's presence in our daily lives.
Point 1: The Reality of God's Presence
In Genesis 28, Jacob is on the run from his brother Esau and stops for the night at a place later called Bethel. As he sleeps, he dreams of a ladder reaching to heaven with angels ascending and descending. The LORD stands above it and reaffirms His covenant promises to Jacob. Upon waking, Jacob realizes he was in the presence of God all along.
Psalm 139:7-10 (NLT): "I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me."
Consider a child playing hide and seek with their parent. They might think they are hiding well, but the parent always knows where they are. Similarly, we often think we are alone or unseen, but God is always present, watching over us with love.
Psalm 139 beautifully captures the omnipresence of God. David acknowledges that there is no place he can go where God is not present. Whether in the heights of heaven or the depths of the grave, God's presence is there. This passage speaks to the comforting and inescapable reality of God's omnipresence.
Understanding God's omnipresence can bring immense comfort and assurance. We are never alone; God's guiding hand and supportive strength are always with us. In moments of joy or despair, we can trust that God is near, offering His unwavering presence and support.
A.W. Tozer once said, "We need never shout across the spaces to an absent God. He is nearer than our own soul, closer than our most secret thoughts."
We must cultivate an awareness of God's constant presence. This awareness transforms our ordinary moments into opportunities for worship and gratitude. Practicing the presence of God involves acknowledging Him in all our ways and trusting His guidance.
Point 2: The Assurance of God's Promises
God's encounter with Jacob at Bethel includes a reaffirmation of His covenant promises: land, descendants, and blessings to all nations through Jacob’s offspring. This divine assurance provides Jacob with a new sense of purpose and hope.
Isaiah 41:10 (NLT): "Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand."
Think of a young soldier receiving a letter from home, filled with promises of love and support. These words encourage and strengthen him in the midst of battle. Likewise, God's promises give us the strength to face life's challenges.
Isaiah 41:10 is a powerful promise of God's presence and support. God reassures His people not to fear or be discouraged because He is with them. This verse emphasizes God's strength, help, and victorious support.
This verse encourages us to rely on God's strength and help in times of fear and discouragement. Knowing that God is with us, we can face challenges with confidence and courage. God's promise to uphold us with His victorious right hand assures us of His ultimate power and support.
Imagine a person drowning and being rescued by a strong lifeguard. The lifeguard’s strength and assurance bring safety and relief. Likewise, God’s promise to be with us and uphold us provides the ultimate security and peace.
Charles Spurgeon said, "God's promises are the peculiar treasure of believers, their Magna Charta, the title deeds of their eternal estate."
Let us anchor our lives in God's promises. Memorize and meditate on Scripture, allowing God's word to shape our thoughts and actions. When doubts arise, we can stand firm on the promises of God, knowing He is faithful to fulfill them.
Point 3: The Response of Worship and Commitment
Jacob's response to the divine encounter is one of awe and worship. He sets up a stone pillar, anoints it with oil, and vows to make the place a house of God. This act of worship signifies Jacob's commitment to God and recognition of His sovereignty.
Romans 12:1 (NLT): "And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him."
Imagine an artist dedicating their masterpiece to someone who inspired them. They pour their heart and soul into the work, reflecting their gratitude and commitment. Our lives should be lived as masterpieces dedicated to God, reflecting His glory.
Romans 12:1 calls believers to offer their bodies as a living sacrifice to God. This act of giving ourselves fully to God is described as our true and proper worship. It involves dedicating our entire being—mind, body, and spirit—to God's service.
This verse challenges us to live lives dedicated to God in response to His mercy and grace. It involves a daily commitment to living in a way that honours God, reflecting His holiness and love in all we do. True worship goes beyond rituals; it’s about a lifestyle of surrender and devotion to God.
Consider an athlete dedicating their life to their sport, training, and disciplining their body to achieve excellence. Similarly, we are called to dedicate our lives to God, continually offering ourselves in service and worship to Him.
John Piper stated, "The chief end of man is to glorify God by enjoying Him forever."
Our response to God's presence and promises should be wholehearted worship and commitment. Offer your life as a living sacrifice, dedicated to serving and glorifying God in all you do. Let your worship be a daily expression of love and devotion to Him.
Conclusion:
Genesis 28:16 reminds us of the profound truth that God is always with us, His promises are sure, and our response should be one of worship and commitment. As we awaken to His presence, let us live transformed lives, anchored in His promises and dedicated to His glory.
Psalm 139:7-10 reminds us of God's omnipresence, Isaiah 41:10 reassures us of His strength and support, and Romans 12:1 challenges us to live lives dedicated to Him. Together, these scriptures paint a picture of a God who is always present, always supportive, and deserving of our complete devotion.
Call to Action:
Awareness: This week, practice being aware of God's presence in every moment. Take time to pause and acknowledge Him throughout your day.
Anchor: Memorize a promise from God's word that you can hold onto in times of doubt and difficulty. Rely on God’s strength and help in times of need,
Act: Find a tangible way to express your worship and commitment to God, whether through serving others, spending time in prayer, or dedicating your talents to His work. Offer your life as a living sacrifice, wholly dedicated to God’s service.
Let us go forth, transformed by the truth of God's presence, promises, and our worshipful response. Amen.
