Carrying the Presence

Honor God on His terms—through prayer, praise, and a humble heart.

THIS WEEK’S BOLD STEP DEVOTION

“So David went to bring up the ark of God from the house of Obed-Edom to the City of David with rejoicing.”
(2 Samuel 6:12b)

I remember teaching my four-year-old son how to pray. I told him, “Just repeat after me.” As I began to worship, he followed along, then added his own line: “And God, make sure You tell Him He is handsome too!” I couldn’t help but laugh, but it reminded me of something powerful. Worship is learned as it’s caught in moments, modeled over time, and shaped as we grow. No one starts out knowing how to truly honor God. We learn as we go.

In 2 Samuel 6, King David shows us both the passion and the reverence of worship. David longed for the presence of God and wanted the Ark of the Covenant brought into Jerusalem. But in his eagerness, things were done the wrong way. When Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark, he was struck down, and everything came to a halt. It was a sobering reminder that God is not casual; He is holy. David had to relearn that worship isn’t just about enthusiasm but about honoring God on His terms. We can’t approach Him carelessly or treat Him like something common. True worship holds both intimacy and reverence together.

But David didn’t stay stuck in fear or frustration. He adjusted and made room for God’s presence by carrying the Ark the way God intended, on the shoulders of worshippers. When he did, celebration returned, and blessing followed. The same is true for us. When we create space for God’s presence in our lives through prayer, praise, and a heart that honors Him, everything begins to change. You are a carrier of His presence, and His presence moves best on the shoulders of praise.

Bold Step Challenge:
Bold Step Challenge: This week, intentionally create room for God’s presence in your daily life. Turn your home, your car, and your quiet moments into places of worship. Lift your voice, humble your heart, and practice honoring God, not just occasionally, but consistently.

Prayer:
Lord, teach me how to worship You in spirit and in truth. Forgive me for the times I’ve approached You casually or without reverence. Help me to honor Your holiness while drawing near to Your presence. Show me how to make room for You in every part of my life. Let my heart, my home, and my habits reflect Your worth. I choose to carry Your presence with praise. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Listen to the sermon: Taking the Presence of God with Us

Part 1Part 2Part 3

Ministry Update from Mark

Good news—Moody students are once again able to teach in Chicago Public Schools. After months of prayer and perseverance, Moody has reached a resolution with the Chicago Board of Education that both restores our students’ participation in CPS classrooms and affirms our constitutional rights as a Christian institution. Thank you to so many of you who stood with us in prayer and encouragement along the way.

We’re grateful that CPS has recognized Moody’s religious hiring convictions and reinstated us as an official university partner. This is not just a win for Moody but a reminder that faith-based institutions can remain faithful to their mission while continuing to serve their communities.

We thank God for His faithfulness every step of the way.