Saturday Night Presence Journal

August 30, 2008

As I write, a hurricane is raging in the Gulf of Mexico. I believe other storms are brewing within the hearts of many citizens in God’s Kingdom. However, storms are ultimately for our good. We need those intense situations to force us to look inwardly.

Tonight’s teaching from 1 Samuel, chapters 4-7, was entitled "Processes of Change - What Happens When the Glory Comes?" After the Philistines, Israel's dreaded enemies, captured the Ark of the Covenant, God's presence destroyed their idol god, Dagon, and terribly afflicted their people. Consequently, they were anxious to return the Ark to Israel.

Sadly, Israel also had to suffer afflictions. When found to be worshipping idols, they had to repent and discard their false gods. As Samuel prayed for them, God gave them a great victory over the Philistines and allowed them to regain what had been stolen.

Likewise, when the Glory comes, we must:

1. Confess all known sin.
2. Deal with and get rid of every “doubtful” thing in our lives.
3. Instantly obey the Holy Spirit.
4. Confess Christ publicly.
   (Evan Roberts, Welsh Revival 1904)

Together in His Presence,
Dr. Robert & Lisa Pace
Pastors Saturday Evening Service