My dear friends, it is a joy to see you today. We are meditating on the promise verse from Psalm 89:15: “Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, Lord.” When I read this verse, I remembered a story. There was a small kingdom surrounded by mountains. By evening, the entire kingdom would become dark. Every evening, the people in the village would light lanterns and keep them outside their homes so that there would be light to guide people walking along the roads. One night, a girl named Hannah was walking alone. A storm came, and the clouds covered the moon, leaving her without any light. It was completely dark, and she could not see the road to walk home. As she was walking, she noticed a small light behind her. As she continued walking, she found that the light was following her. It was one of the king’s servants holding a lantern and walking behind her. She asked, “Are you following me?” He replied, “Yes. The king knew that you were walking on this road, so he sent me to guide you as you walk along this road.” Hannah continued walking. The storm did not stop, and the clouds did not clear. But somehow, it became easier for her to walk because of the light. She reached home safely and was not afraid because the king’s light was guiding her.

The road did not change. Her situation did not change. But the light that was guiding her made it clear for her to see where she was going. We see in the Bible what Moses said to the Lord: “If your presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.” He knew the importance of God’s presence. God’s presence brought him joy. Moses continually faced bad news, discouragement, disappointment, and threats. But he was not afraid. He was filled with the joy of the Lord because he knew that God was with him. Secondly, the presence of the Lord brought him courage. No matter what happened, he could say, “The Lord is with me.” He would go forward and do what the Lord told him to do. Thirdly, the presence of the Lord brought him direction. The Lord continually led Moses and his people where they needed to go, what they needed to do, and what they needed to do next. He also taught them how to rely on Him and learn how He would provide for them. Everything Moses sought from the Lord, he received for the people.

Today, in the same way, as you walk in the presence of the Lord, He will be your guiding light. No matter what the situation in your life may be, it may be difficult, hard, narrow, or full of obstacles. But God’s guiding light will lead you to the place He has prepared for you. As His presence goes before you, guards you, fills you with joy, and gives you courage, you can move forward without fear. Today, let us thank God for His presence.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for filling me and my home with Your presence. Thank You that Your presence surrounds me and gives me the light of salvation, direction, joy, courage, and faith. Let Your presence go before me wherever I go, making every crooked path straight. Lead me in the way I should walk and be my guiding light. Fill my heart with Your joy and courage. Help me obey You, walk in Your ways, and continually trust You. Guard my family and guide every step we take. May Your presence lead us safely through every difficulty and obstacle. Let Your light shine upon our lives and guide us according to Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.