Be Where Your Feet Are: The Power of Presence
Have you ever been physically present but mentally somewhere else? Maybe you’re at the dinner table, but your mind is racing through tomorrow’s to-do list. Or perhaps you’re in church, singing the words but thinking about work deadlines or weekend plans. We’ve all been there. In a world filled with endless distractions, staying fully engaged in the moment can feel like an impossible task.
But what if there’s more to the present moment than we realize? What if God is inviting us to be where our feet are?
The Biblical Call to Be Present
God Is the God of the Present
In Exodus 3:14, God reveals Himself to Moses with the name, “I AM WHO I AM.” Notice that He doesn't say, “I was” or “I will be.” He simply says, I AM. God defines Himself in the present tense. He meets us right here, right now—not in our past regrets or future anxieties.
Jesus’ Example of Presence
Consider Jesus in Mark 10:46-52. On His way to Jerusalem, knowing the cross awaited Him, He stopped to heal a blind man named Bartimaeus. Despite the weight of His mission, Jesus wasn’t too busy to notice someone in need. If Jesus could be present with one person while carrying the fate of humanity on His shoulders, what’s our excuse?
Scripture’s Focus on Today
Matthew 6:34 reminds us, “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” God calls us to focus on today because today is where life happens. It’s where joy is found, growth occurs, and His presence is most real.
Why Being Present Matters
Presence Honors God
When we are fully present, we acknowledge that this moment is a gift from God. Colossians 3:23 encourages us to do everything with our whole heart, as if we are working for the Lord. Whether we’re washing dishes, attending a meeting, or playing with our kids—being fully engaged is an act of worship.
Presence Builds Relationships
Being present says, “You matter to me.” James 1:19 challenges us to be quick to listen and slow to speak. Real listening requires undivided attention. It means putting down the phone, making eye contact, and truly hearing what the other person is saying.
Presence Cultivates Contentment
Philippians 4:11-13 shows us that contentment isn’t found in circumstances but in Christ. Gratitude flourishes when we focus on the blessings right in front of us instead of longing for what’s next.
Practical Ways to "Be Where Your Feet Are"
Pause and Breathe
When you feel overwhelmed, pause. Take a deep breath and whisper, “God is here.” This simple practice anchors you to the present moment.
Put Down Distractions
Create tech-free zones in your day—during meals, family time, or quiet moments with God. Challenge yourself to be fully present for at least 30 minutes a day without your phone.
Practice Mindful Prayer
Try a breath prayer: Inhale, “Be still,” and exhale, “and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). This centers your heart on God’s presence.
Engage Fully Where You Are
In conversations, make eye contact. Listen more than you speak. In tasks, whether exciting or mundane, do them with excellence as an offering to God.
The Gift of the Present
Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” You are not in this moment by accident. God has something for you here and now.
So, the next time your mind starts to wander, pause and remind yourself: Be where your feet are. Because right here, in this moment, God is present—and that’s enough.
Reflection Questions:
Where am I physically present but emotionally or spiritually absent?
How can I practice being more present with God, people, and daily activities?
A Closing Prayer:
Lord, help me to be fully present where You’ve placed me. Teach me to cherish each moment, to engage with the people around me, and to honor You in all I do. Let me not miss the beauty of today because I’m stuck in yesterday or worried about tomorrow. Amen.