Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. Exodus 3:5 (NIV)
God is everywhere. You and I can experience Him anytime, anywhere.
In Psalm 139, the Psalmist says, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.”
I recently had a conversation with a friend about church attendance and the presence of God. I do firmly believe that it’s important to be in a body of Christ on a regular basis. This is biblical, to gather together and to observe the Sabbath. But that’s only a part of it. I can find and be in the presence of God anytime, anywhere.
For me, an early wake up and quiet time is key. I set my alarm so that I’m up before anyone else. This affords me the time to read my Bible and pray without interruption.
My early morning workout is very much a part of how I experience God. Early morning running serves as my holy ground. Exercise and outside activity tends to facilitate a special experience with God because we’re aware of the breath in our lungs and the beauty around us. I often feel that He speaks to me, not in an audible voice, but He teaches me, prompts me, and shows me things when I’m out running, biking, walking, or simply moving about outside. Maybe it’s because it’s hard to deny His creation. It’s hard to look around and not be in awe of the beauty around us. Or, when we’re moving our bodies and pushing our limits, we realize how wonderfully we have been made. There’s something special about connecting with God through movement.
Spending time with friends and family is how some experience God. The Bible tells us that where two or more are gathered in His name, He is there also. It doesn’t have to be inside the four walls of a church. It can be during your group fitness class, your weekly run club meetup, or while on a walk with a friend. When He lives in you; He goes with you.
I don’t know where or when you experience God, but I do know that no matter where we are or what we’re doing, He can be found. Are you looking for Him?
Your holy ground can be anywhere…
It may be during the sunrise…
Perhaps in solitude…
Maybe on the trails…
Could be in the sound of the ocean waves…
While cradling your baby in the middle of the night…
It may be in the evening after everyone has gone to bed…
It may be through the laughter of your children playing in the other room…
God is everywhere. Wherever you are, He is. We just have to be aware.
Action Step
When you step outside for your next workout, imagine that you are stepping onto holy ground. Be aware of His presence with you throughout your walk, ride, or run.
