God’s Presence is Not Limited by Location

Key Verse:

"Therefore say: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Although I sent them far away among the nations and scattered them among the countries, yet for a little while I have been a sanctuary for them in the countries where they have gone.’” — Ezekiel 11:16 (NIV)

Devotional Thought:

Have you ever felt distant from God? Maybe you’ve gone through seasons where life’s challenges made you feel isolated, abandoned, or disconnected from His presence. In Ezekiel 11:16, God reassures His people that even in exile, He is still their sanctuary. Though they were physically removed from their homeland and the temple, God’s presence was not confined to a building, He was with them wherever they were.

This truth remains the same for us today. We often associate God’s presence with a church building, a worship service, or a particular location. But God is not limited by physical space. He is with us in every situation whether we’re at home, at work, in a hospital bed, or even in the midst of uncertainty and hardship.

Lessons to Reflect On:

1. God’s Presence is Personal: Even when we feel scattered, lost, or abandoned, God is near. He is a personal God who dwells with His people, not just in grand cathedrals but in our hearts.
2. God is Our Sanctuary Everywhere: Just like He was a sanctuary for the Israelites in exile, He is our refuge in times of trouble. His presence is our safe place, no matter where we are.
3. We Are the Temple of God: Through Christ, believers have become the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). This means we carry God’s presence with us wherever we go.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for being my sanctuary no matter where I am. In moments of loneliness, remind me that You are near. Help me to trust in Your presence, knowing that You are my refuge and strength. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

1. Have you ever felt distant from God? How did you seek His presence during that time?
2. In what ways can you make God your sanctuary in your daily life?
3. How does knowing that God’s presence is not limited to a location change the way you approach worship and prayer?