Keeping God Company

January 28, 2008

By James Fields

God likes company. In fact, He likes lots of company. "There … was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands" (Revelation 7:9, NIV).

I don't know why God likes human companions so much. I guess it's just His gregarious nature. Since God loves our company and we love God, we ought to strive to keep Him company. I'm not talking about when we get to heaven and enjoy eternal fellowship with Him. God is looking for humans willing to spend time with Him during the here and now.

Can you imagine that? The almighty, infinite Creator of the universe desires your presence. He wants you visiting Him simply because you are you. We tend to think prayer is merely asking, requesting and petitioning God for our needs. But prayer is primarily spending time with God.

Praise, worship, adoration and thanksgiving are absolutely essential for keeping God company. People who only know how to make requests have not yet learned how to satisfy God's need for their company. Those who praise, adore and worship God experience heart-felt communion with Him. Out of Spirit-inspired, heartfelt fellowship our petitions and requests will agree completely with God's will. We'll see those prayers wonderfully answered.

Just as you enjoy the company of friends and family, remember your Heavenly Father's need for you. Set aside a time for just being with Him. When you keep God company, His presence will transform you into better company for all your human companions.

-- James and Delores Fields are veteran Assemblies of God pastors and former missionaries. They founded Comfort and Encouragement Ministries in 1997.