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. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. (Psalm 139:7-10)

We should make it a habit to reflect on the attributes of God, on how they relate to our faith and life, and how they determine our message to the world. In these verses we are led to think about God’s omnipresence. He is present in all places and at all times. This does not mean that he occupies all of physical space, because he is spirit and not physical. But he is present in every place in a sense that is consistent with his nature. All that is true about him is true everywhere. God is not only master of the hill or of the valley. He is not only a lord in the office or the home. His glory is not limited to a church building or a prayer meeting. God is the God of all creation. He is all-powerful and all-knowing everywhere. He is gracious and righteous in every place.

If this truth penetrates our thinking, we would not do some of the things that we do, or we would not do so much of them. The fear of God would curb our adultery, theft, gossip, and shameful dealings. We would not spend so much time in meaningless amusements, sports, and games. We would also do some of the things that we ordinarily might not do. If we think that the Lord is with us, even standing in our midst, we would want his approval. We would take courage in his presence and execute his commands and teachings. We would boldly preach the gospel. We would treat our spouses with kindness and respect. Following the pattern of the Lord and his disciples, we would blast stubborn sinners with harsh threats and demeaning insults. We would become diligent in study and worship.

God’s omnipresence ought to penetrate our message as well. The God that we believe in is the God that we preach to the world. Thus we say, “When you are in your home where no man watches, God sees your sins. When you are at work, God watches your greed and cruelty. When you steal, God sees it. When you lie, God hears it. He keeps a record of wrongs, and even though you escape the light justice of men, the full power of God’s punishment will soon come crashing down on you. Your only hope is to trust in Jesus Christ to save you and represent you before the Father.” By the same doctrine, we encourage the faithful: “Although men do not appreciate you, God sees the good works that you perform. Although men slander you, God sees the truth and will vindicate you and reward you. Take heart! Your faith in the Lord will not be in vain. When you are weak, or when you are surrounded by troubles and enemies, be courageous and joyful! God is there to hold your hand. He is with you, and he will deliver you.”