Esther before King Ahasuerus. Fransesco Fontebasso, National Trust.
Is there a protocol for entering the Lord’s presence?
Tell us what you think!
If we were to visit with the President an aide would inform us of the timing of activities, where we will be walking in and moving to, and the process of greeting and speaking. And if we are petitioning for action on a matter we typically thank the President and then honor the President as we begin.
“Thank you, Mr. President, for your interest in the infrastructure of our highways. We honor you for your attentiveness to the safety of our citizens and the durability and longevity of our roads and bridges.”
There are times when we dial heaven’s 911 hotline and say without formality, “Lord, I’m in a crisis. Help, now!” The Lord is gracious and understands our pounding hearts looking for relief. But typically, there is a protocol for entering the King’s courts, even for Sons and Daughters, which involves thanksgiving and praise.
Psalms 100:4 says, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Thanks and praise properly stages our entrance, helping us be grateful for the benefits we have received, and appreciative for the person who has brought those benefits.
When someone shares a gift with us we all know to be thankful, but we don’t always remember to “praise” or esteem the giver. A friend gives a gift. The first response is “Thanks you, kindly!” But our second response may be of praise.
“You are so thoughtful! You remembered my husband died a year ago. These were his favorite flowers!”
“You are so creative! Wow, to think of the time and skillful energy you put into this gift!”
“You are so generous! This is such a precious and valuable gift!”
SUGGESTIONS FOR ENTERING OUR HEAVENLY FRIENDS’ PRESENCE:
THANKS PRAISE
For safety I feel so secure with you as my protector!
For healing You are a compassionate physician!
For help in trouble You are such an attentive comforter!
For solutions to problems You are a river of wisdom!
For food and clothing You are a caring provider!
For beauty You are so artfully creative!
For joy Your love endures forever!
For abundant blessings You are so generous!
“Give thanks to the Lord, For his love endures forever.”
How wonderful that communion with God is just a breath away!
How do you enter in with Thanks and Praise?
Steven C Johnson
DO YOU REMEMBER THE “I AM WITH YOU PRINCIPLE?”