Have you ever walked into a church service or a time of worship anticipating a powerful encounter — only to feel… nothing? That was me recently.
As praise and worship began, I heard the words in my spirit: “Presence overflow.” Instantly, I felt a deep assurance that we were in for an amazing church service. But as the service progressed, it didn’t quite feel like an overflow. Doubt began to creep in. Maybe it was just my imagination, I thought.
Then, a realization hit me: Just because I don’t feel God’s presence in the way I expected doesn’t mean His presence isn’t overflowing. People around me were still being blessed. His presence was there — not because of how I felt, but because of what He has promised – “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” — Matthew 18:20
That day, I left the service with insights that shifted my perspective on God’s presence.
Lesson 1: God May Not Come the Way I Expect
God doesn’t always show up the way we envision. He is not bound by our expectations or emotions.
“Our God is in heaven; He does whatever pleases Him.” — Psalm 115:3
In 1 Kings 19:11–13, Elijah experienced this firsthand. He was waiting to hear from God, and there was a mighty wind, an earthquake, and a fire. But God wasn’t in any of those dramatic signs. He came instead in a gentle whisper.
Sometimes we look for God in the spectacular — but He reveals Himself in the stillness. Maybe you’re praying for a financial breakthrough. God might not send it through a lottery win or a windfall. Instead, He could use a friend’s generosity, a new opportunity, or a quiet promotion that changes everything.

Lesson 2: Wait for It
“Wait on the Lord” is not a cliché. It’s a spiritual principle, therefore we are to wait with expectation.
Waiting is an act of faith — a declaration that you trust God to do what He has promised. That song echoes in my heart: “God is able to do just what He said He would do…”
Understanding that God is too faithful to fail makes the waiting bearable. It’s in these moments that endurance is built, and trust grows deeper. (Romans 5:3-4).
And Then… It Happened
Just when I least expected it, things shifted. The service turned into a praise outbreak. Joy broke out. The atmosphere became saturated with the tangible presence of God.
His presence was overflowing — just like He had promised. I just needed to trust, wait, and be open to how He chose to move.
Final Thoughts
God’s presence is not confined to feelings or fireworks. It is anchored in His promise. So, even if you don’t feel it, don’t walk away. He is with is – in the stillness, in the noise, in the waiting, and in the overflow.
He is there. He is working. And His presence overflows.
Have you ever experienced a moment like this in your walk with God? Share in the comments below — I’d love to hear your story.