Kingdom Builders | Birmingham, AL

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it's natural to reflect on the past and look forward with hope and anticipation. But what if this year could be different? What if, instead of chasing after things, we pursued something far more valuable - the very presence of God?

The story of David bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem in 2 Samuel 6 offers profound insights for our own spiritual journey. The Ark represented God's tangible presence among His people, and David's desire to bring it to the center of Israel's life speaks to our own need to place God at the center of our lives.

However, this journey wasn't without its challenges. When Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark as it was being transported, he was struck down. This sobering moment reminds us of an important truth: what God hates most often lives inside what God loves most. Our best intentions in serving God are not enough if we do it our way rather than His way.

This incident left David angry and afraid. How often have we found ourselves in a similar place, frustrated with God when things don't go as we expected? Yet, even in his anger, David didn't give up on bringing the Ark to Jerusalem. He simply took a detour, leaving the Ark in the house of Obed-Edom for three months.

And here's where the story takes a remarkable turn. During those three months, God blessed Obed-Edom and his entire household. This blessing was so evident that word of it reached David, prompting him to complete the journey of bringing the Ark to Jerusalem.

There's a powerful lesson here: when we invite God's presence into our lives, blessings naturally follow. Not just for us, but for those connected to us as well. It's not about pursuing blessings for their own sake, but recognizing that God's presence is the source of true abundance in every area of our lives.

As David finally brought the Ark into Jerusalem, he danced before the Lord with all his might. His wife, Michal, criticized him for his undignified behavior, but David's response is telling: "I was dancing before the Lord." David's focus wasn't on how he appeared to others, but on expressing his joy and gratitude to God.

This challenges us to consider: are we more concerned with how others perceive us, or with authentically expressing our love and devotion to God? True worship isn't about maintaining appearances; it's about pouring out our hearts before God, regardless of who might be watching.

As we enter this new year, let's take a cue from David and Obed-Edom. Instead of setting our sights solely on personal goals or material gains, what if we made it our primary aim to invite God's presence more fully into our lives? What if we approached each day with the expectation that God wants to dwell with us, bless us, and use us to bless others?

Here are some practical ways we can pursue God's presence in the coming year:

1. Prioritize daily time with God: Set aside time each day for prayer, Bible reading, and quiet reflection.

2. Cultivate an attitude of worship: Look for reasons to praise God throughout your day, not just during formal church services.

3. Seek God's guidance: Before making decisions, big or small, pause to ask for God's wisdom and direction.

4. Create a God-centered environment: Surround yourself with things that remind you of God's presence - scripture verses, worship music, or inspiring books.

5. Be a blessing to others: Look for ways to share God's love with those around you, recognizing that as you bless others, you too will be blessed.

6. Practice gratitude: Regularly thank God for His presence and blessings in your life, even in challenging circumstances.

7. Join a community of believers: Surround yourself with others who are also seeking God's presence, as iron sharpens iron.

Remember, the goal isn't to earn God's presence through our efforts, but to position ourselves to receive and recognize the presence He freely offers. As we do this, we can expect to see transformation not just in our own lives, but in the lives of those around us.

The promise of Proverbs 10:22 rings true: "The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it." When we pursue God's presence above all else, we position ourselves to receive blessings that go beyond material wealth - blessings of peace, joy, purpose, and spiritual abundance.

As you stand at the beginning of this new year, hear the invitation to draw near to God. He is not a distant deity, but a loving Father who desires to dwell with you, bless you, and use you as a channel of blessing to others. Will you make room for His presence in your life?

Let this be the year where you dance before the Lord with abandon, where you experience the overflow of His blessings, and where your life becomes a testimony to the transformative power of God's presence. As you step into this new year, may you do so with the confidence that comes from knowing the Creator of the universe desires to walk closely with you every step of the way.

The journey of pursuing God's presence is not always easy, but it is always worth it. So take that first step. Invite God into every aspect of your life. And watch as His presence brings light to your darkness, joy to your sorrow, and purpose to your days. This could be the year everything changes - not because of what you do, but because of Whose presence you choose to dwell in.