The writers of Scripture often express the desire to experience God's presence. In this close experience, God's goodness and love are all people need (see Psalm 21:6). In a similar way, when God is absent, it causes distress and harm.
The poets of Israel often spoke as if God has a "face" to show his presence or absence. They sought his "face" (Psalms 4:6; 105:4). When God caused "His face to shine" or turned toward his people, they felt his presence. This came through blessings, provision, and protection (67:1; 80:3–19).
When God hid his "face," it represented divine abandonment (Psalms 13:1; 27:9; 44:24; 69:17; 88:14; 89:46; 102:2; 104:29; 143:7). It was as if God did not see or hear them (10:11; 42:3). God's absence causes fear, shame, and chaos, and could even lead to death (30:7; 44:24; 104:29).
The psalmists (the people who wrote the psalms) prayed for God's presence when they wanted a change in situation (Psalms 31:15–16; 67:1; 69:17; 80:3, 7, 19). They recognized that his presence helped them (44:3). Faithful people desire to be in God's presence (11:7; 16:9–11; 17:15). His presence alone fulfills their deepest desires (17:15). It brings them lasting joy (37:4; 43:4; 73:25). Everything about God brings them joy.
People experience God's favor and goodness through his presence (Psalm 23:6). Blessings, abundant crops, and prosperity indicate his presence (21:3; 65:11; 68:10; 85:12; 106:5; 128:2). God's goodness closely connects to the temple, where his presence is especially obvious (65:4). His presence brings health and life to his people and provides their needs (107:9). For the psalmists, God's presence was necessary for living well and thriving.
Passages for Further Study
Psalms 4:6; 13:1; 21:6; 24:3–6; 27:9; 44:3, 24; 67:1; 69:17; 88:14; 89:46; 102:2; 104:29; 143:7