Think of the last time you …
… gazed in wonder at a blazing sunset,
…marveled at the heavenly aroma of lilacs or orange blossoms, or
…listened to a melody that brought tears to your eyes.
God has equipped us with amazing physical senses, enabling us to experience and enjoy the display of his creative genius.
But physical manifestations are not his only outlet of expression. God also revels in displaying his fullness in our hearts. The question is: how do we become aware of such revelations in the abstract realm of our spirits?
A.W. Tozer presents a possibility in his classic, The Pursuit of God. He suggests we use the senses of our hearts.
The Bible gives us glimpses of how these internal senses might work.
1. TASTE
David urges us to “taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8). That verse reminds me of a father urging his child to try a bite of some new food. “Try it—you’ll like it!” he says.
As Christians, we can “try” God—offer him a prayer, believe in a promise, trust in his love and care. He will not ignore such efforts! When we come near to God, he will come near to us (James 4:7).
2. SMELL
Although Psalm 45 was written as a wedding song, perhaps for King Solomon, it also has prophetic qualities, looking forward to the day when Christ and his bride, the church, will be united forever. Verse 8 mentions the groom’s fragrant robes:
“All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia,” says the psalmist.
Think of a favorite candle with a delightful aroma. Do you light it and then leave it? No, more than likely you place that candle in close proximity, so you can breathe in deeply the lovely fragrance and relish the pleasure.
We can draw near to God and relish the pleasure of his presence—the fragrance of his peace, joy, and comfort.
3. HEARING
Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27).
His voice represents wisdom, guidance, encouragement, and security. Our primary source for those benefits? The Bible. But God also speaks to his children in other ways: through creation, other people, events, even inner impressions.
Times of stillness are necessary. If every moment is filled with chatter, we will not be able to hear God.
4. TOUCH
Talk to those who have sought God during a crisis and without exception they will attest to sensing God’s presence with them. For me, it’s like a holy heart-hug, infusing me with peace of mind and strength of heart. Not that I am impervious to hurt or discouragement, but the touch of God provides respite and hope.
How? Through praise and worship, especially as I meditate in the psalms.
5. SIGHT
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:8).
The verb tense used here is called “future continuous.” The verse could read: “They shall be continually seeing God for themselves.”
I’m reminded of a time Steve and I visited friends at their new home. We turned off a familiar busy street and were almost immediately surrounded by tall trees. The homes were set back from the road, barely visible. The neighborhood was like a little piece of country set down in the middle of our metropolis.
“Who knew this area even existed?” I said to Steve. He agreed.
We had both passed that street numerous times, but never saw it.
Isn’t that how it is with God? We’re so busy, dashing from one task to the next, we never see God at work around us. We aren’t looking for him so we miss him.
But! When we are attentive for evidence of God’s presence and power, we will see him!
“When the habit of inwardly gazing Godward
becomes fixed within us,
we shall be ushered onto
a new level of spiritual life.”
– A.W. Tozer
* * * * * * * * * *
Thank you, loving Father, that you do expand my understanding as I seek to know you more and strive to comprehend more fully the greatness of your glory. Teach me to use the five senses of my heart to accomplish those goals. With great anticipation, I look forward to the new levels of spiritual life to which you will guide me!
(Photo credits: www.flickr.com (2); www.roshchodeshnewmoon; http://www.canva.com http://www.pixabay.com; www.healycabins.com.)
From the Inside Out 