Oops, God is Everywhere!
When you were in elementary school and the principal or a special visitor came into your classroom, did you sit straight, look interested, and act respectfully? While at work, if you are aware of an inspection or accreditation occurring on the premises, are you more likely to be mindful of your actions and of following proper procedures? If you are driving and spot a law enforcement vehicle, do you pay more attention to the speed limit and your driving manners?
If you are anything like me, I bet you’re in your best behavior when you’re around someone with authority and prestige. The questions I posed above are ones I thought of in response to a meditation I read recently that made me question whether I live as I believe and whether my actions speak my faith. Do I conduct myself as though God is present in my life?
I know God is with me always because I have read it in the Bible. Matthew quotes Jesus in the final verse of his gospel, “Behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age,” and Paul reminded the Hebrews that the Lord will never leave us nor forsake us (13:5). From the Old Testament, Isaiah sums up chapter 41 with verse 10: “Fear not, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
These passages are a spiritual comfort and often keep me peacefully grounded, but would I speak and act differently if I literally saw God standing next to me? If I saw Him watching me, would my demeanor and attitude be kinder? Would I be more patient and understanding if God were visible?
Did I react to that driver who made me angry as though God was alongside me in the passenger seat? At work, did God, sitting next to me at my computer, notice my obvious irritation with an inept coworker? Or did His wink at her indicate that He appreciated her efforts?
When I awake each morning, I thank God for my night’s rest and pray for His continued blessings upon me and all my loved ones. I ask that He remain by my side during the day, adding a promise that I will try to stay connected with Him throughout my waking hours. Then I get out of bed, make tea, and read from Scripture or a biblical reflection.
Did God enjoy the rhythmic sound of the rain while I groaned because I could not eat lunch outside? Did He see me roll my eyes when the cashier was not looking because I was annoyed that she was sluggish? Why didn’t I notice that God was smiling at her?
Until I read the meditation I mentioned above, God being everywhere meant He would always be present for me whenever I felt lonely, confused, anxious, or ill. I do not need to worry or ever feel unloved because I have a God who always watches over me and walks beside me. Now I am reminded that He is with me during good times, tough times, and all those in between.
Did God hug my spouse as I half-heartedly greeted him when I got home because all I wanted to do was soak in the tub and curl up with a book? Did He lie with me when I sighed because I could not relax in my comfortable, warm bed? Is He the one who hummed the hymn that eventually put me to sleep?
God is my Best Friend, so I am comfortable with Him and sometimes fail to appreciate Him. If only I could remember that while God is my constant companion and consoler, He also sees my transgressions when I get angry or frustrated. I need to remember this so that from now on, my morning conversations with Him will also include a plea for Him to nudge me each time He notices I am about to waver from godliness.
Did God just nod approval at me? Is he pleased that I am trying to be more humble and grateful? Tomorrow, I hope He catches me being generous, patient, and considerate.