More Than Just Sunday
A life lived in the awareness of God's nearness.
What does it really mean to dwell in the house of the Lord?
For many Christians, that phrase brings to mind thoughts of heaven—a final resting place filled with peace, joy, and the visible presence of God. While that’s true, David’s words in Psalm 23:6 and Psalm 27:4 invite us into something far more immediate.
“I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
“One thing I have asked from the Lord… to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.”
These are not just poetic hopes for the afterlife. They are declarations of present communion—a life lived in the awareness of God's nearness.
Not Just a Temple Visit—A Way of Life
David’s life was full of chaos—war, betrayal, heartbreak. Yet what sustained him was not the absence of trouble, but the presence of the Lord.
He longed not merely for ritual, but for relationship. He wasn’t content to drop in occasionally—he wanted to dwell. That word speaks of permanence, intimacy, and delight.
And that longing should define us, too.
Dwelling Begins Now
Under the new covenant, God no longer dwells in tents or temples made with hands. He dwells in us.
“We are the temple of the living God.” — 2 Corinthians 6:16
“You also, as living stones, are being built into a spiritual house.” — 1 Peter 2:5
This means we don’t just “visit” God on Sundays—we walk with Him daily. Through prayer, worship, and Scripture, we can live in His presence now.
God is not far off. The house of the Lord is wherever His people abide in Him.
Why Corporate Worship Still Matters
That said, gathering with the church remains vital. David longed to “gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and inquire in His temple.” There’s power in corporate worship—hearing voices lifted together, breaking bread, and sitting under God’s Word.
As C.S. Lewis1 pointed out, ancient Israelites didn’t separate physical worship from spiritual experience. They felt God's presence in the temple through song, sacrifice, and sacred space.
In the same way, when we gather, we’re not just “going to church.” We’re stepping into the presence of our King, together.
How Do You Dwell With God Daily?
Here are four practical ways:
Start your day with Him
Don’t just check off a reading plan—sit with God in His Word and speak to Him in prayer.
Practice presence throughout the day
Remind yourself often: God is with you in the commute, in the conversation, in the quiet.
Engage deeply in worship
Whether gathered with others or alone, don’t just observe—participate. Worship is where your soul breathes.
Let your life reflect His kingdom
How you speak, decide, serve, and love should flow from a heart anchored in God’s presence.
Dwelling Is Your Identity, Not Just Your Destination
The call to dwell in God’s house isn’t just about going to heaven when we die. It’s about living in the reality of heaven’s King right now.
“Surely goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord as long as I live.” — Psalm 23:6
You don’t have to wait for eternity to begin enjoying God. His presence is available today.
So make His presence your home—not your occasional visit.
Ready to go deeper?
Share in the comments: What helps you dwell in God’s presence throughout your week?
Reflections on the Psalms (1958)