12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. ~ Philippians 3:12-15
When Paul says that he presses on, he is saying that he is working hard to pursue at least three things: the things of God, the purposes of God (his calling from God), and the presence of God. You cannot pursue those things without pursuing the Giver of those things. It’s impossible. Besides, Paul said to let the mature think this way.
To me, it’s one of two reasons why a pastor would preach against men and women of God pursuing His presence. An excuse for spiritual laziness and because of a lack of understanding. I know that it’s a lot of work to maintain and grow a strong, vibrant relationship with Jesus, but anything good is not easy to achieve.
So, I suppose that is the reason why those same pastors who preach against chasing the presence aren’t seeing miracles in their services because they don’t chase after the presence. And without the Presence, there are no miracles. Healings. Signs. Wonders. Or Salvation.
Peace. Love. Go Forth and Press On.
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