Before the time of Socrates, there was a Greek philosopher named Empedocles. He was famous for discovering that air is a separate substance. But I think he is notable for his statement about the presence of God. He is credited with saying, “God is a circle whose center is everywhere and its circumference is NOWHERE.”

Truly, the Lord is a circle and the center of that circle is absolutely everywhere!

That sentiment is certainly expressed in Psalm 139 where David asks, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” And of course, the answer is NOWHERE!

For the believer, great confidence and assurance can be found in that thought. We cannot go anywhere where the Lord won’t meet us.

That concept  is more than a theological truth, it is a practical comfort. When the bottom falls out of our lives and our circumstances are choking us, we just need to remember that HE IS THERE! When our sin overwhelms us and shame covers our eyes so that all we see is blackness. HE IS THERE!

When our children break our heart or our spouse leaves us or our boss lets us go, HE IS THERE! When a loved one passes away, HE IS THERE! When our account is empty and our body broken, HE IS THERE!

A little girl once had an encounter with a skeptic. He said to her, “I will give you an orange if you will tell me where God is.” To which she answered, “I will give you two oranges if you will tell me where God isn’t.”

Needless to say, no oranges exchanged hands.

Our Savior has committed to be near to us. He is near to the broken hearted (Ps. 34:18). He will draw near to those who call on Him (Ps. 145:18). Phil. 4:5 sums it all up with the statement that “The Lord is at hand.” HE IS THERE!

So, this week, let’s all go about our business as if we believe that He is right there with us. Have meaningful conversations. Worship with Him. Sing with Him. Read His Word with Him in mind. Lean into Him for the strength or comfort you might need.

HE REALLY IS THERE!