Too many Christians live by: “See not Jesus, hear not Jesus, speak not Jesus.” If you are unaware of “Christ in you,” perhaps He’s not. Being unaware of the presence of the risen Jesus, is like being in a spiritual coma. Perhaps instead of more preaching, Christians need greater awareness of the presence of the risen Jesus.

It’s easy to go through the motions of religion and to be unaware that we are unaware of the living presence of Jesus Christ. However, Scripture says, Behold the Lamb of God,” — be aware of His presence. Jesus is continually trying to break through our unawareness of His presence. He says: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock.”

If Christ has risen and is present when we gather in His name, there’s no reason to be unaware of His presence. To live, unaware of the presence of Jesus Christ, is to live in practical denial of His resurrection. The measure of church is its fruit. How effective is it at creating committed & obedient followers of the living Jesus?

Perhaps we should pray, “Jesus, if You’re really risen from the dead and present in the 21st century, make me truly aware of You.” Why not try it?

When we sin and refuse to confess and repent, our sin blocks our awareness of the presence of the risen Jesus. What we refuse to acknowledge and confess to God, will continually torment us from within. Denial can’t erase our guilt. Medicating it only temporarily dulls it. However, our confession and God’s forgiveness, removes it.

You clean your conscience by humble, honest confession, not by self-justification. Disagree with people but don’t disrespect or disdain them.