Flourishing: Living Fully in God’s Presence

“The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon.

They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our

God.” — Psalm 92:12–13 (ESV)

There are times when the Lord speaks something so clearly that it marks a shift—not

just in a moment, but in a mindset. For me, the word flourishing came unexpectedly, yet

unmistakably.

I don’t always receive a specific word for a season, but this one stood out. And as I

leaned into it, God began to unfold a deeper meaning—one rooted in His Word and

reflective of His heart for His people.

What Does It Mean to Flourish?

Flourishing is more than getting by. It’s more than surviving. To flourish means to thrive,

to grow vigorously, and to live in a state of abundance. It reflects health, vitality, and

purpose. Interestingly, the Hebrew word for peace, shalom, also carries this meaning. It

speaks of wholeness—physically, emotionally, spiritually—and flourishing in every area

of life.

But flourishing isn’t about a picture-perfect life. It’s not about external success or

accumulating things. It’s about living rooted in the presence, provision, and peace of

God. As Romans 14:17 reminds us:

“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of

righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” — Romans 14:17

How God Spoke to Me

The word came while I was doing something as ordinary as exercising. I wasn’t looking

for revelation, but God used that moment to quiet my heart and speak clearly. He

brought to mind Matthew 6:25–34—Jesus’ words about worry, provision, and the

Kingdom.

It became clear: flourishing isn’t something we produce, it’s not about striving or

external circumstances—it’s about our focus; It’s about resting in Him; it’s something we

receive when we trust Him.

Three Keys to Flourishing

1. Trust in God’s Provision

Jesus pointed to the birds and flowers, showing how God cares

for them without striving. He asks, “Are you not of more value

than they?” (Matthew 6:26).

True flourishing begins with trusting that God will provide. When we stop striving and

start resting, anxiety begins to loosen its grip.

I’ve seen this time and again—God providing in unexpected and astonishing ways. As

Psalm 37:25 reminds us:

“I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken

or his children begging for bread.”

No matter what happens in the world—shifts in the economy, political uncertainty,

cultural changes, or personal challenges—our hope is secure in the One who never

fails. He is our faithful provider.

2. Have a Kingdom Priority

Matthew 6:33 says:

“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all

these things will be added to you.”

Flourishing happens when we align our lives with God’s purposes–--pursuing,

embracing, and maintaining a Kingdom priority in all we do. It’s about putting Him

first—before ambitions, before schedules, before even our own comfort. Jesus modeled

this when He called His disciples to leave everything and follow Him.

On the flip side, the rich young ruler couldn’t let go of what he had—and missed out on

what Jesus was offering. Flourishing isn’t just about having potential; it’s about living

surrendered.

When God is first, everything else finds its place. Flourishing is the fruit of a life rooted

in His priorities.

3. Live in the Present

Jesus also said:

“Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious

for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” — Matthew 6:34

Flourishing requires that we live fully in the moment. Worrying about the future only robs

us of today’s peace and joy. To flourish means to trust that God holds the future and to

walk in step with Him today.

Living in the present also means letting go of what’s behind—old wounds,

disappointments, regret, and unforgiveness. These weights keep us from moving

forward. When we release them, we make room for the new life God wants to grow in

us.

2 Corinthians 3:18 reminds us that as we behold Him, we are transformed “from glory to

glory.” It’s in His presence that flourishing takes root.

Living a Flourishing Life

A flourishing life is marked by peace, joy, and stability—even in the midst of

challenge. It’s not defined by outward success, but by inward rootedness.

Psalm 92 tells us why the righteous flourish:

Because they are planted in the house of the Lord.

When our roots go deep into His presence, we bear fruit in every season.

Final Thoughts

Flourishing is an invitation—not something we manufacture, but something we step into

as we trust in God’s provision, prioritize His Kingdom, and live fully present with Him.

Let Him be your source.

Let His Kingdom shape your priorities.

Let His presence renew you daily.

This is God’s heart for you: In Him, you will flourish.