“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
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This week, we focus on God’s attribute of (what theologians call) omnipresence. Psalm 139:7-10 beautifully captures the essence of God’s omnipresence. The psalmist David reflects on the impossibility of escaping God’s presence. This realization should drive us to awe of God and bring us comfort in our most vulnerable seasons.
Let’s start with the first statement in verse 7: “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” These questions set the tone. These two questions reveal something about us and our God.
God’s omnipresence means He is always everywhere. He is with us whether we are at the highest peaks of joy or the deepest valleys of desperation. He is not limited by time or space. His omnipresence highlights His infinite nature and intimate involvement with His creation even though He is set apart from it. He didn’t create the world and set it on a shelf to collect dust. He created and continues to stay present everywhere.
We will look at the rest of these verses throughout the week, but notice what these first two questions say about us. We tend to be people who “go” or “flee.” We like to believe we’re in control; we often go in (what we think is) the opposite direction of God. We want to wander from the one who created us and seek our own sense of power or ownership.
Our tendency is to flee when we don’t think we get what we deserve from the Creator. Our loyalty, love, and faith can quickly retreat. Yet these questions reveal that even in our rebellion, God doesn’t create distance from us. He is always present, and because He is always present, He loves when we act unlovingly.
God’s constant presence is not just passive observation but active guidance and support. His presence brings a sense of purpose and direction to our lives. Knowing God is always with us encourages us to step out in faith, pursue our calling, and confidently face challenges.
It can be easy to forget that God is with us in our busy lives. We may feel overwhelmed by responsibilities or isolated in our struggles. However, these two questions invite us to pause and remember that we are never out of God’s sight or care, even when we try to be. His presence is a constant reality, providing us with peace and assurance.
Questions for reflection and discussion:
- How are you trying to “go” or “flee” God right now?
- How does God’s omnipresence bring comfort to you?
- How does His omnipresence scare you?
Church Reading Plan: Isaiah 63; Matthew 11