WHEN GOD’S PRESENCE DEPARTS (2)

DECEMBER 24, 2024

TEXT:

And she said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson.” And he awoke out of his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times before and shake myself.” And he did not know that the LORD had departed from him (Judges 16:20).

Today, we conclude our discussion on what it means for God to depart from a person’s life. When God departs from a person’s life, it is high time for that person to examine their life and do everything possible to seek restoration of the erstwhile relationship with God (2 Chronicles 7:14). Another thing to note is that God’s seeming absence can be a test of one’s faith, requiring one to continue trusting in God’s sovereign power, even when He seems not to be present (Jeremiah 17:7). Also, it may be a time to reevaluate your agenda and prioritize God in all your daily activities (Matthew 6:33).

BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF PEOPLE WHO EXPERIENCED THE DEPARTURE/ABSENCE OF GOD

Samson: His foolish demonstration and utilization of God’s power led him to his untimely end. He later met his match on Delilah’s lap, thereby losing his strength (Judges 16:20).
King Uzziah: God departed from this faithful son of Amaziah, who started well with God but later dishonored God by going into the temple to offer a sacrifice, which only the priest could offer. The result was that he was struck with leprosy (2 Chronicles 26:16-21).
King Solomon: He started well with God but later fell into the sins of womanizing, excessive polygamy, and ultimately idolatry. He began to worship various idols, such as Chemosh, Molech, Milcom, and Ashtoreth. God eventually departed from him (1 Kings 11:1-13).
The Israelites: It almost became a norm for God to depart from the Israelites, especially during the days of the judges. God abandoned them on many occasions, selling them into the hands of kings of Mesopotamia, Moab, Ammon, Canaan, Midian, etc. (Judges 3, 4, 6, 7).
King Saul: Saul was the first anointed king of the United Kingdom of Israel. He started well but later fell off due to disobedience and arrogance. He took decisions without consulting God, and God had to depart from him, culminating in him consulting the woman with the familiar spirit at Endor.

SEARCHLIGHT: God’s presence is contingent upon our obedience. We must stay true to God to ensure He remains with us. Sin is the number one factor that can limit God’s impact in our lives.

PRAYER: O Lord, do not neglect me, in the name of Jesus.

BIBLE READING: Exodus 20-22, John 10

PST. MICHAEL OMOLE