May 17th - Beatitudes | Trusting His Presence by Brad Bichsel

In this episode, Brad shares a practical, story-driven message on living aware of God's presence in everyday life—not just in church services or "spiritual highs," but in family chaos, travel, work, and uncertainty. Through funny and honest stories about awkward Christmas gifts, a Lego monorail with his grandfather, and a trip to Uganda with young kids where everything seemed to go wrong, he shows that the real gift is never just the present itself—it's the *presence*: time with a Father who is with us, teaching, guiding, and working even when we feel like we've missed it. Rooted in Psalm 139, Psalm 23, John 14, and a C.S. Lewis quote, Brad reminds us that we can't escape God's Spirit—"even there" His hand will guide and support us. The challenge is not whether God is near; it's whether we slow down enough to remember, pay attention, and say "thank you" for the ways He has already been faithful. We explore how to trust God's leading when life feels messy, how gratitude helps us stay awake to His presence, and why following the Good Shepherd is better than trying to control the path ourselves. This message is an invitation to bring your busy, imperfect days to Jesus and walk away with a fresh awareness that He is with you—before you, behind you, and all around. For more messages and resources, visit www.hopeucnashville.com or download the HopeUC Nashville app.