In the Old Testament, the Ark of the Covenant was the place of God’s presence. While the Lord was present among His people, He localized His presence in the tabernacle (temple) or sanctuary. The Bible explains in Exodus 25:8 (AMP),
"Have them build a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them."
The Bible explains clearly in 1 Samuel 3:3 that Samuel, one of the most powerful prophets and judges in the Bible, lay in the sanctuary (in the presence of God) where the ark of God was:
"Samuel was lying down in the house of the LORD, where the ark of God was."
Because Samuel dwelled in the presence of God, he was attentive to hear the voice of God. In 1 Samuel 3:4 we see how amazing Samuel’s anointing was:
"Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, "Here I am."
We should likewise do the same. Dwelling or living in God’s presence as much as possible will greatly increase the effect of your ministry, and the success in your life. Deuteronomy 5:27 says,
"Go near and listen to all that the Lord our God says. Then tell us whatever the Lord our God tells you. We will listen and obey.”
Besides hearing God’s voice, which leads to all success, in His presence there is fullness of joy. Psalm 16:11 clearly shows this:
"You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
Now that was the Old Testament. After the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we became the temple of God. The Bible explains that Jesus was the “firstfruits” of those raised from the dead in John 2:19:
Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days."
In 1 Corinthians 3:16 the apostle Paul explains even more clearly:
"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in your midst?"
If we make it a habit to seek God daily in prayer, and studying the Word of God, allowing the Holy Spirit to govern us, we will experience the presence of God. Then we will be attentive to listen the voice of God like Samuel and we will hear Him clearly. I can’t imagine a better counselor than God, can you?
Stay in HIS presence.
In Jesus name