Day 3

The Good Presence

The shepherd's presence is critical for the well-being and survival of a flock. The Good Shepherd is ever with us. His presence brings comfort, not fear.

Key Verse: Psalm 23:4
OT Shepherd: Amos
NT Verse: James 4:8

Begin today by stopping everything you are doing and try to be still in the presence of our good God for five or ten minutes — no agenda, no takeaways, no to-do list. Just. Be. With.

Sheep are notoriously helpless and unwise. They aren't able to find their way to nourishment and easily become lost. They can't defend themselves from predators. Their own wool can weigh them down so heavily they can't function. A cast-down sheep needs help urgently — the shepherd has to be constantly present to protect and guide them.

Read · Amos 7:14-15

God chose Amos, a shepherd and grower of figs, to be His spokesman. He basically said, “Look, I was minding my own business in the fields when the Lord called me out to bring His message to you. And it's important!” His obedience to do what the Lord asked is inspiring.

What experiences from Amos's past as a shepherd and farmer must have prepared him to be a prophet to God's people?

Amos got to deliver God's impassioned plea for His people, “Seek me and live!” (Amos 5:4).

How might a deeper abiding in God's presence shape the way you interact with your children? Shape what you value most for them?

How does living daily in the presence of God give you courage to speak truth that may not be welcome at first?

Read · Amos 5:14-16

Read · James 4:8

How do you see the theme of repentance in these two passages? How are repentance and righteousness connected to embracing God's presence?

Is there something God is asking you to repent of? It's really the most loving thing He can do for us. When we respond by repenting, our understanding of His presence is refreshed and our relationship with Him deepens.

Repentance is a tender thing to engage in. God may ask your student to repent this week at camp. As you re-engage in life together a few days from now, be sensitive to how God may have moved and choose compassion toward your child.

Read · Psalm 23:4

List several times when knowing God is with you even in a difficult season has given you great comfort, direction, or confidence to continue.

Finish today with a prayer of thanksgiving for God's presence and for His desire to dwell together with us.

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