A Truth to Believe

What does it mean that God is immanent?

When we speak of God's transcendence–how he is infinitely exalted above all things, distinct from everything he has made, and his absolute superiority over all creation–it is also necessary to speak about God's immanence: his nearness and active presence within this world. More specifically, God's immanence means he is actively present, sustaining, governing, and working throughout the creation he has made.

While God is set apart and beyond finite humanity, he is not distant, uninvolved, or detached. At the same time, God is not part of his creation, nor is he identical with it. He remains distinct from and exalted above all that he has made, yet is intimately involved in it. Moreover, God is not some far-off deity who created the world and then withdrew from it. Rather, he graciously reveals himself and actively works within his creation. One of the greatest demonstrations of God's immanence is his covenantal involvement in both the OT and in his incarnation, death, and resurrection in the NT. The exalted and separate God is a present, active, and covenantal God.

The more clearly we grasp God's transcendence, the more astonishing his immanence becomes. Though infinitely exalted above us, God is near and present. Though distinct from creation, the Son of God took on flesh to redeem it. Though God upholds all things by the word of his power and works all things according to the counsel of his will, he hears our prayers and loves his children. He is a knowable God, a covenant-keeping God, a compassionate God, and a God who is actively involved with his people. God's children can live with confidence that because God is immanent, he is always engaged, always active, always near, and always at work for the glory of his own name and the good of those who belong to him.

Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me (Psalm 139:7–10).

Something about Living

We often grumble about the circumstances of our lives as though we are merely victims of whatever comes our way.

Yes, many things lie beyond our control.

However, there are an abundance of circumstances and decisions that we do have control over.

God purposely entrusts us with countless daily choices that directly affect the life we live.

Many decisions, habits, and priorities are within our power to change.

Rather than complain about circumstances, consider what areas of life you do have influence over and with God's help can change.

What do you need to stop complaining about and change in order to more faithfully pursue a life that is centered on Christ and lived for his glory?

A Quote

"Live slowly enough to think deeply about God."

J. I. Packer

A Resource

Summer in Minnesota is the easiest time of the year to get outside and exercise. If you are looking for a resource to help give you a God-shaped vision for exercise, then take a look at A Little Theology of Exercise by David Mathis.

Here is a bonus podcast about exercise and related topics between David Mathis and David Platt