Then [Jesus] will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. Ephesians 3:17

 

When you pray to God, how do you imagine Him? Is He close by or far away in space somewhere?

Malik fasts and prays often, but he does it because he wants to get the attention of a God who he believes is busy and unlikely to notice him. Carlos also prays throughout his day and sometimes fasts, but he’s motivated by the joy of spending time with a God he believes is always with him.

How we think about God matters. It guides how we connect with Him, how vulnerably we pray, and how often we want to!

One of the most amazing truths for those who have chosen to follow Jesus is that He’s not just a spirit “out there” or a God listening from far away. The Bible tells us, “Then [Jesus] will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong” (Ephesians 3:17).

When we speak to the God who makes His home with us, we’re speaking to one nearer than a brother, closer than a friend. He knows all your thoughts, feelings, and circumstances and wants to talk with you, be with you, and strengthen you.

David, the writer of many songs in the Bible, said “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me…You know my thoughts even when I’m far away…I can never get away from your presence!” (Psalm 139:1-2,7)

Today, when you pray, don’t just speak to empty space, picturing God way out there. God hears all prayers, but a follower of Jesus has God’s Spirit within and Jesus, who makes His home with him or her. You’re speaking to the One who is always with you!