Definition and Significance:
"Standing before God" is a phrase that encapsulates the concept of being in the presence of the Almighty, often implying a position of accountability, worship, or service. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative and is significant in understanding the relationship between humanity and the divine.

Biblical Instances:

1. Accountability and Judgment:
Standing before God often signifies a moment of judgment or accountability. In Romans 14:10, Paul writes, "For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat." This underscores the belief that every individual will ultimately give an account of their life before God, highlighting the importance of living righteously.

2. Worship and Reverence:
The act of standing before God is also associated with worship and reverence. In 1 Kings 8:22, Solomon stands before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the assembly of Israel and spreads out his hands toward heaven, demonstrating a posture of worship and supplication.

3. Service and Ministry:
The phrase is used to describe those who serve God. In 1 Kings 17:1, Elijah declares, "As the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, before whom I stand, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word." Here, standing before God indicates Elijah's role as a prophet and servant of the Lord.

4. Divine Encounter:
Standing before God can also denote a direct encounter with the divine. In Exodus 3:5, God tells Moses, "Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground." This encounter signifies a moment of divine revelation and commissioning.

Theological Implications:

1. Holiness and Purity:
Standing before God requires holiness and purity, as God is holy. In Psalm 24:3-4, the psalmist asks, "Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart." This emphasizes the need for moral and spiritual integrity.

2. Intercession:
The concept also involves intercession, where individuals stand before God on behalf of others. In Ezekiel 22:30, God laments, "I searched for a man among them to repair the wall and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, so that I should not destroy it, but I found no one." This highlights the role of intercessors in seeking God's mercy.

3. Eternal Perspective:
Standing before God is ultimately an eschatological reality, pointing to the final judgment and eternal destiny. Revelation 20:12 describes, "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened." This scene underscores the eternal significance of one's life choices and faith.

Practical Application:

1. Living with Accountability:
Believers are encouraged to live with the awareness that they will stand before God, fostering a life of integrity and accountability.

2. Engaging in Worship:
Regular worship and reverence for God are vital, as standing before Him is an act of devotion and acknowledgment of His sovereignty.

3. Serving Faithfully:
Like Elijah, believers are called to serve God faithfully, standing before Him in their daily lives and vocations.

4. Interceding for Others:
Christians are urged to stand in the gap for others through prayer and intercession, seeking God's intervention and grace.

In summary, "standing before God" is a multifaceted concept that encompasses judgment, worship, service, and divine encounter, with profound implications for personal holiness, accountability, and eternal destiny.