In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of life and lose sight of the most important relationship we could ever have—our relationship with God. But the Bible is filled with encouragement to seek God, with promises of what happens when we do so. The quest to know God more is not just a spiritual exercise, it is a lifelong journey that brings purpose, peace, and direction.
The Call to Seek God
The Bible makes it clear that seeking God should be at the heart of our lives. Jeremiah 29:13 says, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." This verse tells us that God is not hiding from us; He desires to be found. However, knowing God intimately requires a sincere pursuit with our whole heart. It’s about prioritizing our relationship with Him, much like we would in any meaningful relationship—with time, effort, and commitment.
Why Seek God?
There are numerous reasons why seeking God is essential, but here are a few key ones:
1. Knowing God Brings Wisdom and Understanding
Proverbs 9:10 says, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." When we truly seek God, we gain a deeper understanding of life and the wisdom to navigate its complexities. Our minds are illuminated with His truth, giving us clarity in times of confusion.
2. Seeking God Leads to Spiritual Growth
The Apostle Paul exemplified someone who, despite his great knowledge and deep relationship with God, still desired to know Him more. In Philippians 3:10, he declared, "I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death." Paul’s hunger for God was never satisfied because he knew there was always more to discover. This should be our attitude as well. As we seek Him, we grow in spiritual maturity, becoming more like Christ.
3. Seeking God Provides Direction and Peace
Isaiah 55:6 urges us to, "Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near." God promises that when we seek Him, He will guide us. Psalm 119:105 declares, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." When we make knowing God our goal, He reveals His will for our lives, leading us in paths of peace, even in times of uncertainty.
Examples of Those Who Sought God
The Bible is full of stories of people who earnestly sought after God and reaped tremendous benefits as a result. Let’s look at a few of these examples.
1. Moses – Seeking God for Direction and Relationship
Moses is a great example of someone who sought to know God more. Even though Moses experienced many miraculous events, such as the burning bush (Exodus 3) and the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14), he constantly desired more of God. In Exodus 33:18, Moses boldly asked, "Now show me your glory." His request was not for more miracles or power, but for a deeper understanding of God’s presence. Because of Moses' pursuit, God spoke with him face to face, as a man speaks to his friend (Exodus 33:11), and gave him the wisdom and guidance he needed to lead the Israelites.
2. David – Seeking God as a Lifelong Pursuit
David is often referred to as a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). In many of his psalms, we see his deep desire to know and be close to God. Psalm 27:4 reveals David’s one request: "One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek Him in His temple." Despite being a king, David knew that his highest calling was to seek and know God. His pursuit led to favor, strength in battle, and a legacy that pointed to the coming Messiah.
3. The Apostle Paul – Seeking God in All Circumstances
Paul's life before meeting Christ was marked by religious zeal but without the knowledge of the true God. After encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9), Paul's life dramatically changed. He dedicated the rest of his life to knowing Christ and making Him known. In all circumstances—whether in prison, preaching to crowds, or writing letters to the churches—Paul’s central focus was to deepen his relationship with God. This commitment brought him spiritual strength, peace, and the courage to face persecution, imprisonment, and even death.
The Reward of Seeking God
The Bible assures us that there is great reward in seeking God. Hebrews 11:6 says, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."
God promises that when we seek Him, He will be found, and we will experience the fullness of life in Him. James 4:8 encourages us with this truth: "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." In seeking God, we receive the ultimate reward—His presence. In His presence, we find joy, peace, purpose, and the strength to endure life's challenges.
Practical Steps to Seek God More
1. Spend Time in His Word: God reveals Himself through the Bible. The more we study and meditate on Scripture, the more we learn about His character, His ways, and His will for our lives.
2. Prayer: Seeking God through prayer is an essential part of knowing Him more. Prayer is not just about asking for things; it's about developing a relationship. Take time to listen as well as speak.
3. Worship: Worship is a powerful way to seek and connect with God. Whether through singing, reflecting on His greatness, or serving others, worship aligns our hearts with His.
4. Community: Fellowship with other believers helps us grow in our pursuit of God. Surrounding ourselves with people who are also seeking God encourages us to press on, even when it’s difficult.
Conclusion
Knowing God more is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. As we seek Him, we are transformed into His likeness, filled with His wisdom, and equipped to face whatever life throws at us. Let us take to heart the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." When we prioritize seeking God, everything else falls into place. Start today, and experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from truly knowing God.
Let us be like David, Moses, and Paul—people who earnestly seek God with all our hearts, knowing that in Him we find everything we need.
No comments:
Post a Comment