Day 13 — The Presence That Distinguishes Us

Day 13 — The Presence That Distinguishes Us

Writer: Terri Thomson // Divergent Church Port Macquarie

“Then Moses said to him, ‘If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.’” Exodus 33:15–16 NIV

Theme: God’s presence is our defining mark.

Reflection:

Moses had seen miracles.

He had witnessed power.

He had been entrusted with leadership.

Yet when the moment came to move forward, he drew a clear line: If Your Presence does not go with us, do not send us.

This is a holy refusal.

Moses understood something vital, that progress without Presence is not success. Movement can be manufactured. Momentum can be generated. However, transformation only comes from God Himself drawing near.

It is tempting to substitute activity for intimacy. Programs, planning, and presentation can create the appearance of life, but they cannot replace the weight of God’s nearness. Presence is not an add-on to the journey; it is the point of it.

What distinguishes the people of God is not how impressive we appear, but who walks with us.

Let presence become your non-negotiable. In homes. In gatherings. In decisions. In quiet moments no one else sees. When God’s Presence rests on a people, it shapes their pace, purifies their motives, and leaves a mark the world cannot ignore.

Prayer

Father,

If Your Presence does not go with us, we do not want to go. Stir our hearts to desire You, not just Your help, but You. Fill our homes, our churches, and our lives with Your glory. Teach us to wait, to honour, and to recognise Your nearness. Let Your Presence be what defines us. Amen. Reflective questions

1.     Where might I be moving forward in activity or decision-making without first ensuring God’s Presence is leading me?

2.     What practices or rhythms help me prioritise intimacy with God over productivity?

3.     In what areas of my life, home, or church do I need to make God’s Presence a non-negotiable again?