Day 2
Power vs. Presence
Yesterday, we saw that God doesn’t want us to live an empty religion, but a real relationship.
We talked about how we can be active in ministry yet disconnected from the heart of the One who called us.
Today, we take a deeper step: it’s not just about doing for God, but seeking God for who He is.
"He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel." — Psalm 103:7, KJV
In the NLT, it reads: "He revealed his character to Moses and his deeds to the people of Israel." — Psalm 103:7, NLT
Notice the difference: God showed Moses His ways—His personal character and heart—while to the people, He revealed only His deeds.
The people saw the miracles, the signs, the manna that fell every morning. But Moses wasn’t satisfied with that. He wanted the God behind the miracle.
We see it in Exodus 33:
Then he said to Him, "If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here." — Exodus 33:15, NKJV
And then he cries out with all his heart:
And he said, "Please, show me Your glory." — Exodus 33:18, NKJV
While the people complained about the taste of the manna, the lack of meat, or wanting to return to Egypt… Moses, in the same camp, longed to see God’s face.
Some looked for what God could give them. Others wanted to know who He was.
In the same place, under the same cloud, some asked for bread… others asked for Presence.
And that is the big difference between power and presence:
Power touches you. Presence transforms you.
Power changes circumstances. Presence changes hearts.
Power produces signs. Presence produces fruit.
Many witness the power. Few dwell in the presence.
Maybe today you’re in the same camp—surrounded by activities, blessings, words, events…
But your soul is searching for more. Because you know there is more.
Maybe you pray, worship, serve… but if you’re honest, it’s been a while since you’ve truly heard His voice. A while since you felt His presence like before.
Not because God has moved away, but because, unintentionally, you started settling for the external.
Today, the Spirit calls you back to intimacy.
From being a spectator of what God does… to being a friend of God, like Moses.
Back to the place where you don’t need to impress anyone.
Where it’s not about results or performance.
Where it’s about one thing: Him and you.
Let’s pray together:
Lord, I don’t want to live chasing the power I see, but drawn to the presence that transforms. I don’t want to seek You only when I need something, but love You even when I feel nothing. Take me back to the place where Your voice is enough, where Your presence is the true reward. I want to see Your glory. And if Your presence does not go with me… I don’t want to continue. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Want to keep deepening your intimacy with God?
Then don’t miss Day 3: “Information vs. Revelation” – because knowing things about God isn’t enough… you have to know Him!
Scripture
Reflection Questions
Am I more focused on what God can do for me (His power) than on who He is (His presence)?
What would it look like in my daily life to seek God’s presence as the true reward, not just His blessings?
