God's Presence.
Back to Divine Breathings!
Where the King is—there is the court; and where the presence of God is—there is heaven. Are you in prison like Paul and Silas? If God is with you—you will sing his praises. Are you at the stake with blessed martyrs; as the rays of the sun put out the fire, so the beams of God's countenance will put out the flames, and turn your troubles into comforts; so that it is only closing your eyes—and you are in heaven!
Therefore the man who enjoys the Lord, though he may not have the sun to shine in creature comforts, or worldly delights to solace him—yet he needs them not, for the glory of God enlightens his soul, and the Lamb is the light thereof! God irradiates it with the brightness of his beauty, and Christ fills it with joy unspeakable, and full of glory.
Thus God brings heaven with him; and the man who enjoys God—carries heaven about him! You may cast him into a dungeon, place him in a furnace, or wherever you please—yet he is still in heaven!
Therefore, Lord, give me yourself, and then do what you please with me.