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Study 11 of 18

Feeling After God

Faith allows us to experience God's tangible presence and peace in every struggle.

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Focusing on the intimacy of the Christian walk, this session explores the concept of "feeling after God." Using the experience of Israel at Rephidim, Schofield points out that even in the most difficult circumstances, God is "right here." He highlights that Jesus, having been tempted in all points as we are, feels our weaknesses, our struggles, and even our temptations to react negatively. When we feel the pressure rising, we can recognize that Jesus felt that same pressure but did not sin. By "feeling after" this reality, the burden is lifted because we are connected to His victory. Faith gives us a tangible reality of God's presence, allowing us to walk through the world as if it were the home of God. This session promises that those who seek after Him will find a peace that the world cannot give, regardless of their outward trials.

Key points

  • God's presence is a tangible reality that we can 'feel after' through faith.
  • Jesus feels our temptations and struggles exactly as we do, yet without sin.
  • We can walk through this world seeing God's character revealed in everything.
  • Loneliness and fear vanish when we realize God is 'right here' with us.

Key texts

  • Acts 17:27
  • Exodus 17:1-8
  • John 14:27

From the book

Chapter 11 · John 14 · Read this chapter

  • “No matter what our experience may be, no matter where we are, we can have God with us.” (ch. 11)
  • “When Christ says, 'I am with you,' He means it.” (ch. 11)
  • “We can seek after Him and find Him because He is right here.” (ch. 11)

Put it into practice

  • Practice 'feeling after God' when experiencing negative emotions or pressure.
  • Look for evidences of God's character in the world around me.
  • Accept Christ's peace as a gift that is independent of my circumstances.
  1. Scripture

    1. What happened at Rephidim when the Israelites lacked water?

  2. Doctrinal Clarity

    2. What does it mean to 'feel after God' according to Acts 17:27?

  3. Contrast

    3. How does Jesus' experience of temptation help us when our 'kettle is about to boil'?

  4. Doctrinal Clarity

    4. What is the difference between God's peace and the world's peace?

  5. Comprehension

    5. How can we walk through the world as though it were the 'home of God'?

  6. Contrast

    6. Why did the author use the illustration of a 'whistling kettle'?

  7. Doctrinal Clarity

    7. What happens to loneliness when we find God 'right here'?

  8. Application

    8. When you feel like you are about to 'boil over' in anger or frustration, how can you 'feel after' Jesus in that moment?