Embracing Community and God's Presence in Daily Life

Summary

Over the past several months, we have been exploring what it truly means to be Grace Church—not just a building or a staff, but a people called together for a purpose. Our identity is not rooted in any one leader, but in the collective calling God has placed on us as a community. We have seen this lived out in the way so many have stepped up, served, and loved both within these walls and out in the world. Our mission is to encourage our community toward wholeness in Jesus, and we do this through honest worship, effective discipleship, inspiring relationships, and intentional outreach. These are not just words on a page; they are the means by which we experience and share the grace of God.

At the heart of all these practices is the presence of God. The ordinary rhythms of reading Scripture, praying, serving, and gathering together are the “means of grace”—the channels through which God pours His life into ours. As we participate in these, we become more aware of God’s nearness, and it is His presence that brings us peace in storms, courage in uncertainty, and joy in the everyday. Psalm 16 reminds us that God is our refuge, our portion, and our inheritance. We are invited to confess not only our need but also God’s faithfulness, to say with David, “Every good thing I have comes from you.”

Living in God’s presence is not about striving or earning, but about staying connected—remaining in the refuge, letting God be the “boss” of our lives, and trusting Him with every up and down. In a world that prizes self-reliance, we are called to radical dependence, recognizing that even on our best days, we need God every moment. God’s presence exposes the false gods we chase—power, pleasure, self—and draws us back to what truly satisfies. He is enough, and in Him, our cups overflow.

Practicing God’s presence is as simple as turning our attention to Him in the midst of daily life—at work, at home, in conversation, or in quiet. It is opening the door of our hearts to His gentle knock, inviting Him to guide, correct, and comfort us. As we do, we find wisdom for our relationships, strength for our trials, and a growing awareness that we are never alone. The promise of God’s presence is not just for eternity, but for every moment now. Let us live as people who are deeply aware of God with us, carrying His light and love into every place we go.

Key Takeaways

- Our Identity Is Rooted in Community, Not Individuals
God’s calling for Grace Church is not dependent on any one leader or staff member, but on the collective faithfulness of the people. Each person is invited to step into their role, serving and loving both within the church and beyond. This shared identity is what sustains us through seasons of transition and empowers us to be Christ’s ambassadors in the world. [41:44]

- The Means of Grace Are Ordinary, Yet Transformative
Practices like prayer, Scripture reading, serving, and gathering are not just religious duties—they are the ordinary channels through which God’s grace flows into our lives. These means of grace make us aware of God’s presence and shape us to be more like Jesus. As we engage in them, we are drawn into deeper communion with God and with one another. [45:39]

- Radical Dependence on God Is the Path to Wholeness
In a culture that celebrates self-reliance, we are called to daily, moment-by-moment dependence on God. True refuge and safety are found not in our own strength, but in surrendering to God’s leadership and trusting Him with every aspect of our lives. Even when we do not feel our need, we are invited to confess, “Lord, be the boss of me,” and rest in His faithful care. [49:43]

- God’s Presence Exposes False Gods and Satisfies Our Deepest Needs
As we stay connected to God, He reveals the idols—power, pleasure, self—that compete for our hearts. In His presence, we see that these “little g” gods cannot satisfy or sustain us. Instead, God Himself is our portion and inheritance; He is enough, and in Him, our lives overflow with goodness that spills into the lives of others. [56:23]

- Practicing God’s Presence Is a Daily Invitation
Experiencing God’s presence is not reserved for special moments or spiritual elites. It is as simple as turning our attention to Him in the midst of ordinary life, listening for His voice, and opening the door of our hearts. As we do, God gives wisdom, courage, and peace, shaping us to be people who carry His presence into every situation. [01:09:45]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:45] - Grace Church’s Identity in Transition
[03:10] - Living Out Our Mission Together
[06:30] - The Grace Church “One Page” Explained
[10:15] - Honest Worship and Effective Discipleship
[13:40] - Inspiring Relationships and Outreach
[16:55] - The Measures: Self-Assessment for Mission
[20:30] - The Means of Grace: Ordinary Channels
[24:00] - Psalm 16: Confessing God’s Faithfulness
[28:10] - God as Our Refuge and Master
[32:00] - Staying Connected: Beyond Self-Reliance
[36:15] - God as Our Portion and Inheritance
[40:00] - Blessing God in Every Season
[44:00] - Wisdom and Guidance in God’s Presence
[48:00] - Practicing the Presence of God Daily
[52:00] - Responding to God’s Invitation
[56:00] - Closing Prayer and Sending Forth

Study Guide

Grace Church Small Group Bible Study Guide: Practicing God’s Presence

---

### Bible Reading

Psalm 16
(Read the whole Psalm together as a group.)

---

### Observation Questions

1. In Psalm 16, what are some of the ways David describes his relationship with God? (Look for words like “refuge,” “portion,” “inheritance,” “master.”)
2. According to the sermon, what are the “means of grace” and how do they show up in everyday life? [45:39]
3. What are some examples the pastor gave of “little g” gods that people chase after today? [56:23]
4. How does David express his confidence in God’s presence, even in the face of uncertainty or trouble? (See verses 8-11.)

---

### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does the pastor say our identity as a church is rooted in community and not in any one leader? How does this shape the way we serve and love each other? [41:44]
2. What does it mean to “take refuge” in God, and how is this different from just asking God for help when we’re in trouble? [49:43]
3. The sermon says that God’s presence exposes the “false gods” we chase. Why do you think it’s so easy to let things like power, pleasure, or self become more important than God? [56:23]
4. The pastor mentioned that practicing God’s presence is as simple as turning our attention to Him in daily life. What might this look like for someone who is new to faith or not a “feely” person? [01:09:45]

---

### Application Questions

1. The pastor said, “Our identity is not rooted in any one leader, but in the collective calling God has placed on us as a community.” What is one way you can step into your role at Grace Church, either inside or outside the church walls? [41:44]
2. Think about your daily or weekly routines. Which “means of grace” (prayer, Scripture, serving, gathering) do you already practice? Is there one you want to grow in? What’s a small step you could take this week? [45:39]
3. The sermon talked about “radical dependence” on God instead of self-reliance. Is there an area of your life where you tend to rely on your own strength? What would it look like to invite God to be “the boss” in that area? [49:43]
4. The pastor shared that God’s presence exposes the “little g” gods in our lives. Can you identify something that sometimes takes God’s place in your heart (like work, approval, comfort, etc.)? What’s one way you can surrender that to God this week? [56:23]
5. Practicing God’s presence is a daily invitation. What is one ordinary moment in your day (at work, at home, in the car) where you could pause and turn your attention to God? How might that change your experience of that moment? [01:09:45]
6. The pastor encouraged us to ask, “Lord, is there something you want to show me? Anything you’re calling me to do or to stop doing?” Take a moment to pray this now. Is there anything God brings to mind? [01:14:44]
7. When you think about carrying God’s light and love into every place you go, what is one relationship or situation where you want to be more aware of God’s presence this week? [01:18:43]

---

Closing Prayer:
Invite group members to spend a few moments in quiet, asking God to make them more aware of His presence in the coming week. Encourage them to share any thoughts or prayers that come to mind.

Devotional

Day 1: God Is Our Refuge and Safe Place
God is always near, inviting us to take refuge in Him, not just in times of crisis but in every moment of our lives, offering us rest, safety, and care beyond what self-reliance can provide. When we turn to God, we respond to His loving pursuit, finding a place of true security that is not dependent on our circumstances but on His unchanging presence. Whether facing storms, relational challenges, or daily anxieties, we are called to stay connected to Him, not just in word but in wholehearted dependence, trusting that He is our shelter and strength. [49:43]

Psalm 16:1-2 (ESV)
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord;
I have no good apart from you.”

Reflection: Where in your life today do you feel most in need of God’s refuge, and how can you intentionally turn to Him in that area rather than relying on your own strength?


Day 2: God Is Our Portion—He Is Enough
To say that God is our portion means that He is our inheritance, our sustenance, and our future; we each receive all of Him, and in His presence, we find that He is truly enough, even as His goodness overflows into our lives. In a world that constantly urges us to seek more, God invites us to rest in the sufficiency of His presence, blessing Him in plenty and in want, and trusting that He will lead, guide, and provide for us. As we remain connected to Him, we are empowered to live with the mind of Christ, to bless God with our lives, and to receive the wisdom and perspective we need for every situation. [59:47]

Psalm 16:5-8 (ESV)
The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup;
you hold my lot.
The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.
I bless the Lord who gives me counsel;
in the night also my heart instructs me.
I have set the Lord always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

Reflection: In what area of your life are you tempted to believe that God is not enough, and how can you practice contentment and gratitude for His presence today?


Day 3: The Joy and Security of God’s Presence
God’s presence brings us joy, peace, and courage, even in the midst of life’s storms, and assures us that He will never leave us, guiding us through every season and circumstance. David’s confidence in God’s faithfulness, even without understanding resurrection, points us to the ultimate hope we have in Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and the life, and who invites us to live in God’s presence now and forever. No matter what we face, we can rest in the promise that God is with us, holding us, shaping us, and leading us into the fullness of life with Him. [01:06:15]

Psalm 16:9-11 (ESV)
Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure.
For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption.
You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Reflection: When have you recently experienced God’s presence bringing you peace or joy in a difficult situation, and how can you become more aware of His nearness in your daily life?


Day 4: Practicing Awareness of God’s Presence
Practicing the presence of God means living each day with an awareness that He is with us in every moment, whether in quiet times, busy routines, or unexpected places, and responding to His gentle invitations to listen, trust, and obey. God’s presence is not something we earn; it is a gift that we receive as we open the door of our hearts, tuning in to His voice and allowing Him to shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships. As we intentionally return our attention to Him throughout the day, He reveals His heart, gives us wisdom, and fills us with His peace and strength. [01:13:38]

James 4:8 (ESV)
Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

Reflection: What is one ordinary activity you will do today where you can pause and intentionally invite God’s presence, asking Him to speak or guide you in that moment?


Day 5: Living as Ambassadors of God’s Presence
As we grow in awareness of God’s presence, we are empowered to live as His ambassadors—showing His light and love wherever we go, depending on Him for guidance, and allowing His Spirit to shape our words, actions, and care for others. Fully dependent on God is the best place to live, for He leads, corrects, and keeps us close, preparing us for the fullness of His presence both now and in eternity. Our lives become a testimony to His faithfulness as we bless Him, serve others, and carry His presence into every environment we enter. [01:18:43]

2 Corinthians 5:20 (ESV)
Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Reflection: Who is one person you will encounter this week that you can intentionally bless or serve as an ambassador of God’s presence, and what specific action will you take?

Quotes

When we use this term means of grace, we're talking about the ordinary things that we do, reading the scripture, praying, participating in the Lord's Supper, baptism, serving others, times of fasting. These just things that have to do with the ordinary everyday things of life, like bread and water and juice and service with our hands. Because God uses those things to literally put his grace into our lives. [00:45:06] (28 seconds)  #GraceInTheOrdinary Edit Clip

We don't have to run to find Him. He is always near. And to turn to God is simply our response to the fact that He has been searching for us, looking for us, pursuing us. This has been His plan from the beginning, that we would run to Him, that we would turn to Him, that we would live in communion and relationship with Him, not running around trying to do everything on our own. [00:49:49] (25 seconds)  #AlwaysNear Edit Clip

We go to God to be our refuge and to be safe and we have to stay in the refuge. We can't go live in any old kind of way and then wonder why God didn't protect us, right? We can't just say the words and then act the way we want to act, do the things we want to do and say, well, God, why didn't you take care of me? We have to stay connected to God. [00:52:08] (21 seconds)  #StayInTheRefuge Edit Clip

Being connected to God assures our hearts that we are his and it empowers us to live in the power of his spirit and to have the mind of Christ. And in his presence, we don't just go asking for blessings. We don't just ask for more things because we already have enough. As we're connected to him, we bless him. We bless God with our words and our lives when we trust and obey. [01:00:53] (29 seconds)  #BlessingThroughConnection Edit Clip

It's so awesome because God's presence is like a flashlight that can show you the muck and mire that you're standing in so you realize the truth of the situation if it's a yucky one. But that flashlight will also show you the way out of the muck and mire. That's what God's presence does. It shows us the truth and it shows us the way to go. [01:03:20] (21 seconds)  #LightInTheDarkness Edit Clip

He doesn't just hold on and say, hold on, we're going to try to make it. He uses it to make us more like Jesus because Jesus also knew grief and sorrow and anger and hurt and brokenness. And Jesus prayed, if it is your will, let this cup pass from me, but not my will, your will be done.In his presence, we can become more and more like Jesus in those ways. [01:05:14] (28 seconds)  #MadeLikeJesus Edit Clip

There's a lot we don't know about heaven. But what we do know about heaven is that it will be permeated with the presence of God. So I say, why don't we just start practicing now? Start being aware of God's presence now. Start living in his presence now. Start acting and living as much as we can, as much as as if his kingdom were already here. [01:08:28] (21 seconds)  #PracticeHeavenNow Edit Clip

God's presence isn't something that we have to earn or work for, be good enough for.He comes to all of us. He comes in quiet places. Yeah, he comes while we're sitting down quietly, uh, reading our Bible and praying and, and spending some time in silence. He comes there. He comes in worshipful places, uh, singing at the top of your lungs to the car, radio songs in your car, or when we're here together on Sunday mornings.But he also comes in factories, ball fields, and holding babies, and wherever else you might find yourself. He's there to be with you, to lead you. [01:13:10] (42 seconds)  #GodComesToAll Edit Clip