Stop Trying to “Earn” God’s Presence (This Changes Everything)

Where are You, God? If you’ve ever prayed, if you’ve ever felt spiritually numb, distant, or like God went silent, this episode is for you. Many disciples of Jesus hit seasons where prayer feels empty, worship feels dry, and the Bible feels like words on a page. And if you’re not careful, doubt grows into a terrifying lie: “God isn’t in my life.” But Scripture tells a different story.  In this episode of The Known Disciple Project with Mark Hummel, we walk through biblical proof that God is always present with His people, and that His desire has always been to dwell with you. This isn’t about trying harder, performing better, or “earning” closeness with God. That performance mindset will exhaust you and keep you chasing God like He’s running away. Instead, the Bible reveals a consistent theme: God moves toward humanity. From the Garden of Eden, to the tabernacle, to the temple, to Jesus as Emmanuel, to the Holy Spirit living in you, God’s presence is covenantal. It’s His promise, not your emotional roller coaster.  If you feel far from God, it doesn’t mean God is far. It means you’re being invited to wake up to what’s already true. Highlights → You’ll learn why “feeling distant” doesn’t equal “God is distant,” and how the enemy’s greatest win is convincing you that God is absent.  → We’ll unpack the dangerous “performance lens” that makes you believe closeness with God depends on perfect habits, perfect prayer, or perfect obedience.  → You’ll see the storyline of God’s presence across Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, so you can rebuild confidence in God’s nearness even when emotions are quiet.  → A practical shift: discipline doesn’t summon God; it simply orients your heart to recognize the God who’s already there. Want to learn more about Mark Hummel? Check out the links below. Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Want to learn more about The Known Disciple Project? Check out the links below. Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices