"Have you done your homework?" This is a question I have heard many times in my life. I'm a teacher, so you might think this was an obvious statement. However, I have also heard it said among believers who are in a small group. The fact is, it is not difficult to fall into the trap of viewing reading the bible and praying as "homework". Let's stop calling it homework or even reading and praying, and let's start calling it "time with Jesus". That is what it is meant to be. A relationship, not religious routines. We seek Jesus, not just the knowledge of Him. 

God's presence is both a gift and an invitation. Because of what Jesus did on the cross, we now have direct access to the Father. Jesus has invited us to come to God not as a stranger, but as a child who is spending time with their loving Father. 

However, learning to become aware and recognize God's presence requires us to be intentional. We live in a world full of distractions. Our phones constantly buzz, and our schedules are packed. These things can pull us away from quiet moments where God wants to speak to us. Without His presence, spiritual habits like reading, meditating, and praying can start to feel empty and dry. 

Living in God's presence means putting Him first in everyday life. It means setting aside time to read, meditate, and pray, not just to check something off your to-do list, but to truly sit with Jesus. It means walking with Him during normal, daily tasks and asking His Spirit to guide and change us. Being close to God is not about working harder and being more disciplined; it is about staying connected. As Jesus said in John 15, "Abide in me, and I will abide in you."

This is where change and transformation happen. This change may not always be dramatic. It often shows up in small ways. How we talk, how we act, and how we treat others. People around us may notice before we do. God's presence will not only change us and give us peace and joy, but it will also shine through us and draw others to Him. 

So... Let's forget the "homework" and spend time with Jesus. Make time with Him a priority in your life. Create time to listen, be still, and focus on Him. Let His presence be our number one goal and priority for everything we do as we grow in our faith.