September 13, 2024
Everyone seeks something. We have things that we value, and our values determine the direction of our pursuits. Some seek possessions, some accolades and reputation, some comfort and pleasure and ease.
THE SEARCH THAT BRINGS JOY
But there is really one thing we should seek above all else.
Let the heart of those who seek the Lord be glad. Seek the Lord and His strength. Seek His face continually. (Psalm 105:3-4)
We were made for God, and our soul is not at rest until we find Him and enter His kingdom. Once there, the daily, hourly pursuit of God will bring direction, wisdom, clarity, and understanding. In His presence is “fullness of joy and at His right hand there are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11).
David understood this better than most in the Old Testament days.
I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord. I have no good besides You.” (Psalm 16:2)
Because David knew that His Father was the sole source of all that was needed, he made a deliberate and continual turn to pursue His presence.
I have set the Lord continually before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. (Psalm 16:8)
CONTINUALLY
Most followers of Christ find themselves so distracted by the world that they seek God occasionally … and suffer the loss. Wise is the man or woman who is determined to do whatever is necessary to seek the Lord every day and throughout the day. Who begins the morning in the Word and prayer in God’s throne room, resetting their vision and refreshing their affections. Who “prays without ceasing” throughout the day, turning to the Lord with thanksgiving and requesting daily bread. Who cries in prayer for guidance at every decision, large or small. Who gains course-correcting perspective from heaven and finds God-initiation for every step. Who relies on the Lord’s strength and power to “stand firm against the schemes of the Devil.”
This must be learned—developed over time. For the world is strong, our flesh is weak, and the Devil is devious, strategic, and relentless. His only hope is to pull Christians away from intimacy with the Father. He knows that when we draw near to God, God will draw near to us, and we will become powerful tools of His life in a needy world, showing the world that we were each made in God’s image. That God has made us like He is so we can join Him in what He does … and this joining only comes through dependency upon Him.
It is a choice. So, where will you look today? What will you value, and where will you set your gaze? That choice—today and every day—determines everything.
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