thinking bible.

You asked

how does the new testament echo or develop this idea of an inescapable divine presence?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Psalm 139:7-10

Where could I go from your Spirit? Or where could I flee from your presence? If I ascend up into heaven, you are there. If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, you are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and settle in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand will lead me, and your right hand will hold me.

This passage is from a wisdom psalm, likely written by David, expressing awe and wonder at God's omnipresence and omniscience. The psalmist is meditating on the comprehensive and intimate knowledge God has of every aspect of existence, from thought to physical location.

What does it mean for you to consider a divine presence that cannot be escaped, but also guides and holds?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Jeremiah 23:23-24

    God asks if anyone can hide from him, affirming his filling of heaven and earth.

  • Acts 17:27-28

    Paul, addressing Athenians, speaks of God being not far from anyone, and in whom we live and move and have our being.

Ask your own follow-up