Several weeks ago, David Ravenhill delivered one of the greatest messages every delivered from our pulpit here at Heartland World Ministries Church. It is a timely message, not just for our local body, but also for the Body of Christ at large. Allow me to recap.

In Exodus 25: 8,9 we read where God spoke with Moses, expressing His desire to dwell among His people. He then gave thorough, detailed instruction on how to build the tabernacle, where His glory and presence would dwell. We see here the difference between visitation and habitation. Our cry and desire is to be the place where God dwells among His children. We don't want a simple visitation, we want Him to remain.

There were four factors explained to us that characterize the dwelling place where God chooses to stay:

1. Where God inhabits, there is a THRONE, meaning that God rules supreme. HE is the one in charge. This is His kingdom, we are His servants.

2. Where God inhabits, there is HOLINESS. We serve a pure, completely holy God. Our desire is that He would be pleased with our lives. We must live in such a way that our words and actions are a refection of our Heavenly Father. We can live above the grip of sin, untainted by the darkness of this world. Holy Spirit is there to instruct and assist us to live holy, victorious lives.

3. Where God inhabits there is THANKSGIVING. Our Heavenly Father loves to hear the praises of His children. What parent doesn't like to hear the words, "Thank You," from their children? God loves to inhabit the praises of His children.

4. Where God inhabits there is WORSHIP. When we enter into the presence of Almighty God, the most natural response is to worship. The elders around the throne mentioned in Revelation 4:1-10 never cease crying out, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord Almighty." It is an awesome thought that the Maker of the universe is our personal, loving God. His love and concern for us is so deep that He even cares to number the hairs on your head. What an awesome God we serve!

Take time from your busy schedule to stop and reflect on these points. My prayer is that you will make it your personal desire to have a heart where God dwells continually. 

Blessings,

Steve