Pathways Press.com

Written by J. Ryan Lister, a contemporary professor of theology and author.

If we are honest, many of us can think of God as our “magic genie” from time to time. We keep him on the shelf until troubles arise or there is something our neighbor has that we really want. The problem is, real relationships don’t work this way—especially with the triune God. The Lord over all will not be left on the shelf of anyone’s life. Instead, Scripture is clear that all of life—and, principally, the gospel life—is about being in God’s relational presence. This is why David proclaims, “in your presence there is fullness of joy, at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11). When we push all our peripheral issues to the periphery, this is all that is left and all that really matters.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.  [2 John 1:3]

































The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.  [Psalm 46:7]