Clouds and Darkness: Experiencing the Depth of God’s Presence
"Clouds and darkness are round about Him." – Psalm 97:2
In today’s devotional from My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers draws our attention to the mystery and majesty of God’s presence. For those who have yet to encounter the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, the teachings of Jesus may appear straightforward and easy to grasp. Yet, for those who have been baptized by the Spirit, a deeper reality emerges—one where "clouds and darkness are round about Him."
The Mystery of Jesus’ Teaching
Encountering the teachings of Jesus with spiritual insight reveals their profound depth and holiness. Chambers challenges us to consider whether we have approached God with undue familiarity. Have we, as he says, "taken our commonplace religious shoes off our commonplace religious feet"? The flippancy with which some approach God reflects a lack of true intimacy with Christ. When we truly stand in His presence, the awe of His majesty silences our casual attitudes, and we begin to grasp the weight of who He is.
This shift often follows the initial joy of salvation. The delight of understanding what Jesus has done for us gives way to the humbling and sometimes overwhelming realization of who He is. It is in this moment of "impenetrable darkness" that our relationship with Jesus deepens, as we come face-to-face with the holiness of God.
Spirit and Life Through His Words
Jesus said, "The words that I speak unto you…they are spirit, and they are life." These words are not static. The Bible is not merely a collection of words on a page; it becomes alive when the Spirit breathes its truth into our hearts. As Chambers notes, God often speaks to us not through visions or dreams but through His Word, re-spoken to us in specific moments and situations.
This is the beauty of our walk with God. His words, once shrouded in "clouds and darkness," become spirit and life as they resonate with our souls in ways we could never manufacture on our own. It is through these divine encounters with Scripture that we grow in our understanding and experience of Him.
A Prayer to Stand in Awe of God
Lord, thank You for the mystery of Your presence and the depth of Your Word. Strip away any undue familiarity in how I approach You, and let me stand in awe of who You are. May Your Spirit illuminate the truth of Scripture, transforming words into life within me. Draw me ever closer to You, even in the clouds and darkness, so that I may know You more deeply. Amen.