How to make God our dwelling place?

In a world often defined by chaos, uncertainty, and relentless change, the idea of having a place of true safety and belonging is deeply appealing. For believers, the biblical invitation to make God our dwelling place offers more than comfort—it is a call to anchor our lives in the presence and love of the Divine.

Psalm 91:1 says, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” But how do we move beyond poetic imagery and make God our actual dwelling place in daily life? This post explores practical and spiritual steps to make God our true home.

Understanding What it Means to “Dwell” in God

Before we can dwell in God, we must first understand what this means. Dwelling is more than visiting; it implies permanence, intimacy, and ongoing relationship. To dwell is to settle down, to make our home in a place. Spiritually, making God our dwelling place means centering our lives around Him, finding our identity in Him, and seeking our security and fulfillment in His presence, rather than in transient things.

This idea is echoed throughout Scripture. Moses declared in Psalm 90:1, “Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations.” Jesus invites us to “abide” in Him (John 15:4), emphasizing a continual, life-giving connection. Making God our dwelling place is thus about relationship, not religion; about presence, not performance.

Cultivating God-Consciousness in Daily Life

The first step to making God our dwelling place is cultivating a deep awareness of His presence. This is more than a fleeting thought or a Sunday ritual—it is a moment-by-moment mindfulness that God is with us, in us, and for us. Practicing God’s presence can begin with simple habits:

• Start each day with prayer, inviting God to be part of your thoughts, decisions, and actions.
• Pause throughout the day to acknowledge Him, whether through a brief prayer, gratitude, or simply remembering He is near.
• End your day reflecting on where you sensed God’s presence and where you may have missed it.

Over time, these small practices create a rhythm of awareness that turns ordinary moments into sacred encounters. The more we recognize God’s nearness, the more natural it becomes to dwell in Him.

Anchoring Ourselves in God’s Word

Another foundational way to make God our dwelling place is by immersing ourselves in Scripture. God’s Word is more than information—it is an invitation to relationship. As we meditate on Scripture, God’s promises, character, and wisdom become the framework for our lives. The psalmist writes, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).

Regular Bible reading, memorization, and meditation help shift our minds from anxiety and distraction to trust and clarity. When we allow God’s truth to shape our perspective, we find stability even in uncertain times. Scripture becomes the walls and foundation of our spiritual home, offering guidance, comfort, and strength.

Pursuing Intimate Prayer and Worship

Prayer is the doorway to intimacy with God. Making God our dwelling place means developing a prayer life that is honest, open, and ongoing. This includes:

• Setting aside dedicated time for prayer each day
• Speaking to God as you would to a trusted friend
• Listening for His voice and guidance
• Bringing both joys and struggles to Him

Worship, too, draws us into God’s presence. Whether through music, art, or silence, worship reminds us of who God is and who we are in relation to Him. It shifts our focus from ourselves to the majesty and love of our Creator, creating space for His presence to fill our hearts.

Choosing Trust Over Anxiety

Making God our dwelling place requires us to choose trust, especially in difficult times. The world offers many false refuges—success, possessions, relationships—but these can never provide lasting peace. When fear, doubt, or uncertainty arise, we can consciously turn to God, affirming our faith in His goodness and sovereignty.

This might look like:

• Repeating promises from Scripture when anxious thoughts come
• Surrendering outcomes in prayer, rather than clinging to control
• Remembering past experiences of God’s faithfulness

Trust is a daily decision, not a one-time event. The more we practice it, the more we experience the security of living in God’s shelter.

Building Community and Accountability

We were not made to walk alone. Making God our dwelling place is often reinforced by community—people who encourage, challenge, and support us in our spiritual journey. Being part of a faith community provides opportunities to learn, worship, and serve together, all of which deepen our experience of God’s presence.

Find spiritual friends, mentors, or small groups where you can share honestly, pray together, and spur one another on. Community keeps us grounded when we are tempted to drift and reminds us that God dwells not just with individuals, but among His people.