Nothing in or of this world measures up to the simple pleasure of experiencing the presence of God.— ~ Aiden Wilson Tozer
"The most holy and important practice in the spiritual life is the presence of God - that is, every moment to take great pleasure that God is with you"
Many people ask, “Where is the presence of God in my life?” It’s a profound question that often arises when the reality of God’s presence feels distant. Can one truly have the Holy Spirit and not experience His presence in their life?
The Ark of the Covenant was a central and sacred artifact for the Israelites, representing the very presence of God. Constructed under God’s specific instructions, it housed the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, a pot of manna, and Aaron’s rod, symbolizing God's covenant, provision, and priestly authority. The Ark was a tangible sign of God's presence and power, central to Israel’s worship, victories, and spiritual identity.
In this passage, we meet Obed-Edom, who became an unexpected host of the Ark after tragedy struck. When King David attempted to move the Ark to Jerusalem, Uzzah touched it improperly and was struck dead by God. Fear gripped David, and he decided to leave the Ark at Obed-Edom’s house. Despite the solemn circumstances, Obed-Edom welcomed the Ark into his home. Within three months, his household experienced unprecedented blessings, so much so that the news reached David, prompting him to retrieve the Ark.
Interestingly, the Ark's presence didn’t produce the same results for everyone who encountered it. The Philistines, who captured the Ark during a battle, experienced destruction instead of blessing. The Ark caused their idol, Dagon, to fall and break, and plagues ravaged their land until they sent it back to Israel. For the Philistines, the Ark symbolized judgment, while for Obed-Edom, it brought life and prosperity. This contrast reveals a profound truth: God’s presence, while transformative, demands reverence and holiness.
Hosting the Ark of God in Obed-Edom's home demonstrated both his faith and his willingness to embrace the responsibility of stewarding God's presence. Unlike the Philistines, who sought to rid themselves of the Ark, Obed-Edom made space for it in his life, and the results were evident. Richard Spangler noted that when the time came for the Ark to move to Jerusalem, Obed-Edom didn’t cling to his past blessings but chose to follow the Ark. His devotion led to further opportunities to serve as a gatekeeper, musician, and doorkeeper, continually ministering before the Lord.
The story of Obed-Edom teaches us about the intentionality required to host God’s presence. Today, we no longer rely on a physical Ark to symbolize God’s presence, as believers have become the temple of the Holy Spirit. However, the principles remain: hosting God’s presence requires a clean heart, reverence, and a willingness to prioritize our relationship with Him.
Brother Lawrence, a man known for practicing God’s presence, famously said, “The most holy and necessary practice in our spiritual life is the presence of God. That means finding constant pleasure in His divine company, speaking humbly and lovingly with Him in all seasons, at every moment, without limiting the conversation in any way.”
Hosting God’s presence involves more than momentary spiritual highs; it is about cultivating a continual, intentional relationship with Him.
To host God’s presence today, we must ask ourselves what changes or sacrifices are needed. Holiness, purity, and a heart free from sin are essential. Like Obed-Edom, we must make space in our lives for God to dwell fully.