Scriptures Reading: Matthew 18:20, Exodus 33:14-16, Psalm 16:11
Key Scripture: “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” — Matthew 18:20 (KJV)
Devotional Reading
One of the greatest reasons to value the gathering of believers is simple: Jesus is there.
His presence is what gives the gathering its significance.
Moses understood the value of God’s presence. When God told him that an angel would go before Israel, Moses responded by making it clear that he did not want to move forward without God’s presence.
That should be the heart of every believer. “Lord, if You are not with us, we do not want to go.”
How different our attitude would be if we consciously recognized God’s presence every time we gathered!
- Instead of coming casually, we would come reverently.
- Instead of being distracted, we would become attentive.
- Instead of wondering whether anything significant would happen, we would expect to encounter God.
A person may walk into a church gathering carrying a burden and walk out strengthened. Someone may come discouraged and receive hope. Someone may come confused and receive direction. Someone may come bound and experience freedom.
The woman with the issue of blood did not wait for a formal prayer meeting before reaching Jesus. She recognized where He was and pressed through the crowd to touch Him.
The lesson is powerful: when you recognize the presence of Jesus, you approach differently.
Every gathering of God’s people should therefore be approached with expectation.
Before you enter the gathering, settle it in your heart: “The Lord is here, and I am coming to meet Him.”
When you cultivate this awareness, you will stop measuring a gathering merely by its activities. You will begin to value the most important Person present—the Lord Himself.
His presence is our greatest treasure.
Reflection
- When I attend a gathering of believers, do I consciously expect to encounter the Lord?
Prayer
- Lord Jesus, open my eyes to recognize Your presence whenever Your people gather in Your name.
- May I encounter You and experience Your transforming presence in every gathering.