David says in Psalm 139:7 that God is everywhere, He is omnipresent. In Acts 17:27 Paul talks about how the Lord is not far from any one. Jonah tried to escape God’s presence, but he found that no matter where he went, God was there waiting for him. (Jonah 1:3)  The children of God are promised everlasting joy in His presence. (Psalm 16:11) God’s manifest presence is the result of His unmistakable interactions and unconditional love.

With all the turmoil and fear in our world… terrorism, political unrest, unforeseen natural disasters, and personal difficulties, we desperately need God's presence...   Prayer warriors are needed to contend for God's presence everywhere. We read in 2 Chronicles 16:9, "The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him."

The problem is that most of us are not aware of where we are personally and what is available to us. We are too busy. Our hearts are not burning for God, and we have settled for lesser things. But the eyes of the Lord are searching. He wants to take us deeper into His intimate presence internally, and He wants to invade our neighborhoods and cities with His presence.  His presence makes all the difference. "We have underestimated the pain in God’s heart over the devastation and brokenness and emptiness of people who live in darkness. Isaiah 9:2 declares what the result would be when Jesus’ presence came to earth: 'The people walking in darkness have seen a great light' (NIV). God fully intends to continue to bring hope and restoration to forsaken, desolate communities, and He is looking for those who will partner with Him."

It’s time to contend for God’s presence in prayer.  He longs for our intimacy and wants to invade our world with His power and presence. He is the God of hope and we can anticipate His help and encouragement. "The LORD delights in those who fear Him, who put their hope in His unfailing love." (Psalm 147:11)