Living Coram Deo

 Living Coram Deo

Understanding Coram Deo
To live coram Deo means to live in a constant awareness of God’s presence. This awareness impacts our choices, words, and behaviors. It’s a principle that reminds us that there’s no hidden place or moment in our lives where we can escape God’s observation. Knowing He sees and knows all encourages us to strive for holiness in every aspect of our lives.

The Pursuit of Holiness

1 Glorifying God : The chief aim of our lives is to glorify God. In every interaction, decision, and thought, we have the opportunity to reflect His character and bring honor to Him. This means being intentional about our actions and aiming for an output of grace, love, and integrity.

2 Putting Away Sin : Acknowledging the areas of sin in our lives is crucial. Holiness demands that we identify and turn away from behaviors that do not align with God's will. Self-examination is essential in revealing these areas, as it keeps our spirits sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

3 Link Between Eternity and Present : Living with an awareness of eternity helps us evaluate the significance of our present actions. When we focus on the eternal implications of our choices, we gain perspective on what truly matters.

4 Personal Discipline : Striving for holiness involves cultivating personal discipline. This can include setting aside time for prayer, studying Scripture, and engaging with God in ways that nurture your relationship with Him.

5 Walking in Love : Practicing love towards others is foundational to holiness. Edwards understood that love, especially as it is exemplified in the life of Christ, is a calling for believers. We are to reflect His love through our actions and interactions.

The Abundance of Joy

Experiencing Fulness in God’s Presence
Psalm 16:11 speaks of the joy and pleasure found in God’s presence. This fullness of joy—imagine being "stuffed with joy"—is a beautiful promise. When we pursue holiness, we open ourselves to experiencing this abundance. It is less about striving to earn favor and more about aligning our hearts with God’s desires and basking in the joy of His presence.

Practical Steps to Embrace Holiness

1 Daily Accountability : Begin each day with prayer, asking God to help you live in awareness of His presence. Consider journaling your intentions and reflections on your actions throughout the day.

2 Monitor Your Speech : Before speaking, ask yourself if your words would honor God. If you wouldn’t say something with Him present, consider refraining from saying it at all.

3 Reflect on Actions : As you go about your day, pause to reflect on your actions. Are they consistent with the life of holiness you strive for? If you feel uneasy about something, use that as an opportunity for self-examination and correction.

4 Cultivate Joy : Seek moments of gratitude and celebration in your day. Reflecting on God’s blessings can help cultivate a heart of joy, making it easier to pursue holiness.

5 Engage in Fellowship : Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage you to strive for holiness. Shared accountability can help you maintain focus and dedication in your pursuit of living coram Deo.

Conclusion

The pursuit of holiness is a profound journey that invites us to walk closely with God. By striving for holiness and living as if we are always in His presence, we are not only glorifying Him but also experiencing the fullness of joy He promises. As you concentrate on these truths today, embrace the adjustments needed in your life to align with this calling. The abundance of joy in God’s presence awaits you.

Prayer :
Gracious Father, thank You for the call to live in Your presence and for the promise of joy that comes from being close to You. Help me strive for holiness in every aspect of my life. May my words and actions reflect Your glory and grace. Teach me to live coram Deo, embracing the adjustments required to align my life with Your will. Fill me with Your joy as I seek to honor You. Amen.