All posts by warren

Advent

Favored and Chosen by God

Beloved, you are Favored and Chosen by God.

The message of God’s grace shines brightly in the words spoken to Mary by the angel Gabriel: “Hail, O favored one [endued with grace]! The Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28 AMP). This greeting reveals not only Mary’s unique role in God’s redemptive plan but also the vast and immeasurable favor of God that reaches down to all who respond to His call. Favored and Chosen by God, let your heart not only hear these words but receive them deeply, for they echo God’s invitation to you today.

Mary’s story shows us the profound truth that God’s favor is not for the mighty, the wealthy, or the perfect—it is for the humble, the willing, and the faithful. Mary, an unassuming young woman from an obscure town, was chosen not for her greatness but because her heart was yielded to God. As one commentator notes, “Grace finds us, not because we are worthy, but because He is good.” The favor of God transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, the lowly into the beloved.

“Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found grace [free, spontaneous, absolute favor and loving-kindness] with God” (Luke 1:30 AMP). These words echo through the centuries to you. Favored and Chosen by God, the same grace that called Mary to bear the Savior now calls you to receive Him. This grace is a gift, freely given by God, unearned and unmeasured. As the Apostle John declared, “For of His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace” (John 1:16 AMP).

Mary was troubled and confused at the angel’s greeting, much like we may feel when God calls us to step into His purposes. But her story reminds us that God’s call is never about our ability—it is about His sufficiency. He equips those He calls, and His presence is the guarantee of His promise. As another commentator observes, “The assurance, ‘The Lord is with you,’ is the foundation of courage, the source of peace, and the promise of power.”

Beloved, do not let fear or doubt hold you back. The favor of God rests on you, not because of who you are, but because of who He is. The same God who chose Mary now chooses you. He calls you to bear His life within you, to reflect His light in a dark world, and to walk in the fullness of His grace. Will you say yes to Him? Remember, you are Favored and Chosen by God.

Let the words of Mary’s surrender become the cry of your heart: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38 AMP). This is the response of faith, the surrender of a heart that trusts fully in the goodness of God.

Reflect deeply on this truth: God’s grace does not find you where you think you ought to be but where you truly are. Just as He stepped into Mary’s humble life, He steps into yours. Matthew Henry’s commentary reminds us, “Those that God designs for the greatest honors are commonly the most humble and least ambitious.” It is not your perfection He seeks, but your willingness to trust Him.

Let me urge you, dear one, to answer His call today. The Lord is with you, and His favor rests upon you. Will you receive this grace and allow Him to transform your life? Remember, you are Favored and Chosen by God.

Pray this with me:

Heavenly Father, Your grace is overwhelming and unearned, yet You offer it freely. I come to You with a heart that is willing but weak. Strengthen me by Your Spirit, and let Your favor rest upon me. I surrender to Your call and ask that You would use my life for Your glory. Lord, may it be done to me according to Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now go, beloved, as one favored by God. Walk in His grace, trust in His promises, and surrender to His call. For His love has chosen you, and His Spirit will lead you into the fullness of His plan. Let your heart echo the Apostle John’s words: “We love, because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19 AMP). Amen.

See Also

Advent

The Shepherd Born in Bethlehem

Beloved, as we reflect on the coming of our Lord during this Advent season, let us marvel at the profound mystery of God’s plan. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1, AMP). Yet this eternal Word chose to take on flesh and dwell among us, entering into the world through the humble town of Bethlehem.

When King Herod heard of the birth of the Messiah, “he was deeply disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him” (Matthew 2:3, AMP). The One whose coming had been foretold shook the hearts of the powerful, for “the light shines on in the darkness, and the darkness did not understand it or overpower it” (John 1:5, AMP). Herod sought answers from the priests and scribes, and they replied with the ancient words of prophecy:

“But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are not in any way least among the leaders of Judah;
For from you shall come a Ruler
Who will shepherd My people Israel”
(Matthew 2:6, AMP, quoting Micah 5:2).

Behold the majesty of God! He did not send His Son into a palace of earthly splendor but chose Bethlehem, a town small in stature yet exalted in purpose. “God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong” (1 Corinthians 1:27, AMP). From this humble place came the Shepherd-King, the One who would lay down His life for His sheep.

Jesus, our Good Shepherd, declared, “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep” (John 10:11, AMP). His coming fulfills the promise of God to His people: “I Myself will search for My sheep and seek them out… I will rescue them from all the places to which they have been scattered on a cloudy and gloomy day” (Ezekiel 34:11-12, AMP). He is the Shepherd who gathers us, cares for us, and leads us into green pastures of eternal life.

As we meditate on the significance of Bethlehem, let us consider its deeper meaning. Bethlehem means “house of bread,” and it is there that the Bread of Life was born. Jesus declared, “I am the Bread of Life [the Living Bread that gives and sustains life]. Whoever comes to Me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty” (John 6:35, AMP). He satisfies the deepest longings of our souls, and in Him, we find the fullness of life.

But, beloved, let us not miss the call that comes with His advent. Jesus did not come to merely exist in the margins of our lives; He came to reign as King. Herod resisted His rule, but the wise men sought Him out with gifts and worship. “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13, AMP). This Advent, let us be like the wise men—seeking, surrendering, and adoring the King who came to save us.

“For unto us a Child shall be born, to us a Son shall be given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, AMP). His reign is everlasting, His love unending, and His mercy new every morning.

Let us rejoice, for the Shepherd born in Bethlehem leads us into His glorious light. “The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide, and to shield me]; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1, AMP). He has come, and He is coming again. Let us prepare our hearts for His return and live in the light of His grace.

Prayer

O Lord, our Good Shepherd, we praise You for humbling Yourself to be born in Bethlehem, the least among the cities of Judah. Your ways are higher than our ways, and Your thoughts higher than our thoughts. Help us to seek You with all our hearts and surrender to Your loving rule. Lead us, O Shepherd, into Your everlasting kingdom, and teach us to trust You in all things. We long for more of You and less of ourselves. Come, Lord Jesus, and reign in our hearts. Amen.

See Also

The Pursuit

Pursuit and Restoration

Jehovah Jireh – The Lord Who Provides

O Lord, my God, You are my Provider.
In the wilderness of my soul, You give what I need.
Your mercy flows like streams in the desert;
Your love satisfies my every longing.
You call me to trust like a child, unburdened and free,
For You delight in those who come with simple faith.
Teach me to depend on You fully,
And to seek not the treasures of this world, but the riches of Your heart.

Jehovah Rapha – The Lord Who Heals

Jehovah Rapha, You are the Healer of my wounds.
Restore the broken places of my spirit, O God.
Where pride has scarred, Your grace humbles;
Where doubt lingers, Your peace restores.
You hide Yourself in deep darkness, drawing me near,
Teaching me to walk by faith, not by sight.
Heal me, Lord, that I may see You clearly,
And declare Your goodness in the land of the living.

Jehovah Tsidkenu – The Lord Our Righteousness

O Lord, my Righteousness, let Your justice reign in my heart.
Search me and cleanse me of all unrighteousness.
Rain down Your righteousness like a flood,
And wash away all that is not of You.
You hide from the proud but reveal Yourself to the humble;
Those with childlike hearts find refuge in Your truth.
Teach me to walk upright before You,
To love what is good and hate what is evil.

Jehovah Shalom – The Lord Is Peace

Jehovah Shalom, You are the calm in the storm.
When the winds of life rage around me, You are my peace.
In the stillness of Your presence, my soul finds rest.
Let Your peace, which surpasses understanding, guard my heart.
O Lord, You reveal Yourself to the trusting,
But to the self-reliant, You remain hidden in mystery.
I will lay aside my striving and rest in Your embrace,
For Your peace fills every longing of my heart.

Pursue the Lord with all your heart

Jehovah Nissi – The Lord Is My Banner

Jehovah Nissi, You are my victory.
When the battles rage, You raise Your banner over me.
In You, I triumph over my enemies;
In Your strength, I stand unshaken.
Lift my eyes to see Your banner of love,
And remind me that the battle belongs to You.
As a child trusts in their father’s strong hand,
So I will trust in You, my Warrior and King.

Jehovah Rohi – The Lord Is My Shepherd

Jehovah Rohi, You lead me in paths of righteousness.
You restore my soul and guide me with Your staff.
Even in the valley of the shadow, I will fear no evil,
For You are with me, and Your rod comforts me.
You call me to come like a child, unafraid and dependent,
To trust Your voice and follow wherever You lead.
You are my Shepherd, Yeshua, and in You, I lack nothing.

Jehovah Elohim – The Lord, My God

Jehovah Elohim, You are my Creator and King.
Before the foundations of the earth, You knew me.
You knit me together in my mother’s womb,
And Your plans for me are good and perfect.
You hide Yourself from the wise in their own eyes,
But You show Your face to those with childlike faith.
O Lord, my God, I seek Your face alone.
You are my beginning and my end, my all in all.
Let my life be a reflection of Your glory,
And may I dwell in Your presence forever.

Selah.

Beloved, hear the call of the Lord today. He is not far from you; He waits with open arms, longing for you to come to Him. Have you grown weary in your pursuit? Have the distractions of this world stolen your gaze from His face? Return to the Lord with all your heart!

He delights in the faith of a child—a heart that trusts without reserve, a spirit that runs to Him without hesitation. Stop striving in your own strength, stop seeking answers in what cannot satisfy. The Lord calls you to lay down your pride, your self-sufficiency, and come to Him with humility, with desperation, and with an unrelenting desire for more of Him.

The time is now to pursue Him with all your might. Chase after Him as though your very life depends on it—because it does. “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near” (Isaiah 55:6, AMP). Do not delay! He is the God who provides, who heals, who restores, and who reveals Himself to those who hunger and thirst for Him.

Turn from the fleeting things of this world and set your heart on eternal treasures. Let your cry be, “More of You, Lord, less of me!” Seek His face and His righteousness with every ounce of your being. For when you seek Him, you will find Him. When you draw near to Him, He will draw near to you (James 4:8, AMP).

Do not settle for hollow religion or empty ritual. Run into the arms of the living God, the One who loves you with an everlasting love. He is waiting to restore what was lost, to rain down His righteousness upon your life, and to fill you with His peace and joy. Pursue Him, for He alone is worthy.

Lift your heart, lift your voice, and chase after the Lord your God with all that you are. He will meet you in the pursuit. He will be your strength, your hope, your everything. O, return to Him, and find life—abundant, eternal, and full!

See Also

Songs

Whispers of My Heart 

A Love Song from Jesus to His Church
(c) 2024 by Warren Lavallee, Written Sept 24, 2024

  • Sung by a male with a heavy anointing, in the presence of God and with the Love of Jesus for his Bride.
  • Melody in the same style as “What a Beautiful Name” by Hillsong Worship
  • This song carries a sense of reverence and awe, building upon simple but profound melodies. Its verse-chorus structure is well-suited for songs that speak to intimacy with God.
  • The verses could follow a slow, simple progression similar to the opening verses of “What a Beautiful Name,” with a richer, soaring melody for the chorus, making it feel more anthemic and worshipful.

Verse 1:

In the hush of early morning, when the world is still asleep,
Feel the brush of My affection, like the wind upon your cheek.
Let the golden rays of sunrise paint My love across your skies,
Hear the songbirds serenading, it’s My call to you, arise.

Chorus:

Oh, My beloved, draw near to Me,
In My presence, you’re set free.
Feel My Spirit, calm and still,
In My arms, you’ll find My will.

Verse 2:

Walk with Me through fields of flowers, feel the dew beneath your feet,
Every blossom tells a story of a love profound and deep.
Gaze upon the distant mountains, touching heavens high above,
Know that every peak and valley echoes whispers of My love.

Chorus

Verse 3:

When the storms of life are raging and the shadows cloud your sight,
Feel My hand within your own, guiding you toward the light.
Every tear that falls I cherish, every cry I surely hear,
Wrap yourself within My presence, let go of all your fear.

Chorus

Verse 4:

In the quiet of the evening, under stars that shine so bright,
Feel the rhythm of My heartbeat matching yours in gentle might.
Let the moon cast silver blessings as you rest within My grace,
Dream of joy and hope unending till you see Me face to face.

Chorus

Verse 5:

Taste the sweetness of the harvest, fruits abundant from the vine,
They are tokens of My promise that your heart is forever Mine.
Hear the laughter of the children, feel the warmth of their embrace,
Like a child, trust in My goodness, find your home within this place.

Chorus

Verse 6:

When you wander through the desert and the well has long run dry,
I will pour My love upon you, rain of mercy from the sky.
See the rainbow after rainfall, colors dancing in the air,
It’s a sign of My commitment, a reminder I am there.

Chorus

Verse 7:

As the seasons change around you and the years all fade away,
Know My love remains unchanging, constant through each passing day.
When the final curtain’s closing and your journey finds its end,
You will step into My kingdom, where our joy will never end.

Chorus

Outro:

You are the apple of My eye, the treasure that I seek,
Forever and always, My love for you runs deep.

—

Appendix: Scripture References

Verse 1:

  • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
  • Song of Solomon 2:14 – “Let me see your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely.”
  • Zephaniah 3:17 – “He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you with His love.”

Chorus:

  • James 4:8 – “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”
  • Hebrews 10:22 – “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings.”
  • 2 Corinthians 3:17 – “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
  • Psalm 16:11 – “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.”
  • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
  • Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
  • Psalm 32:8 – “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
  • Proverbs 3:5–6 – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.”

Verse 2:

  • Matthew 6:28–29 – “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow… not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.”
  • Psalm 121:1–2 – “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD.”
  • Romans 1:20 – “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities… have been clearly seen.”

Verse 3:

  • Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”
  • Psalm 56:8 – “You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle.”
  • 1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”

Verse 4:

  • Psalm 42:8 – “By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me.”
  • Psalm 63:6 – “On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night.”
  • 1 Corinthians 13:12 – “For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face.”

Verse 5:

  • John 15:5 – “I am the vine; you are the branches.”
  • Matthew 18:3 – “Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
  • Psalm 84:1–2 – “How lovely is your dwelling place, LORD Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD.”

Verse 6:

  • Isaiah 43:19 – “I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
  • Hosea 6:3 – “He will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.”
  • Genesis 9:13 – “I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth.”

Verse 7:

  • Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
  • 2 Timothy 4:7–8 – “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
  • Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”

Final Chorus:

  • Ephesians 3:19 – “To know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
  • Psalm 16:11 – “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.”
  • Colossians 2:10 – “And in Christ you have been brought to fullness.”

Outro:

  • Zechariah 2:8 – “For whoever touches you touches the apple of his eye.”
  • Jeremiah 31:3 – “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.”
  • Psalm 139:17 – “How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!”

Advent

Prepare the Way: The Shepherd Has Come

The Shepherd has come, fulfilling God’s promise to redeem His people. From eternity, God planned for the Messiah to arrive, not in grandeur, but in the humblest of circumstances. “And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not in any way least among the leaders of Judah; for from you shall come a Ruler who will shepherd My people Israel” (Matthew 2:6, AMP). This prophecy reveals the profound truth that God chooses the unlikely to accomplish His greatest work.

When Herod heard of the Messiah’s birth, he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him (Matthew 2:3, AMP). Why? Because Christ’s arrival disrupted their comfort, pride, and self-reliance. Today, the message of Jesus still challenges us. His light exposes our sin, and His rule demands our surrender. Yet, for those who recognize their need, His coming brings joy and hope. “The people who walk in [spiritual] darkness will see a great Light” (Isaiah 9:2, AMP).

The Humility of Bethlehem

God chose Bethlehem—a small, insignificant town—as the birthplace of the King. This choice reflects God’s character. He exalts the humble and brings low the proud. “God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise” (1 Corinthians 1:27, AMP). From this small town, the Ruler and Shepherd of all nations entered the world. His name is “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, AMP).

The Response of the Faithful

Notice who responded to this incredible news. The shepherds, keeping watch over their flocks, were the first to hear. The angel proclaimed, “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11, AMP). Their response was immediate—they went with haste to see the Christ. Similarly, the magi from the East traveled long distances to bow before the King. These examples show us the right way to respond: with humility, eagerness, and worship.

In contrast, Herod resisted. He clung to his earthly throne and rejected the Messiah’s reign. His response reminds us of the danger of pride and self-interest. The Shepherd calls you to follow Him, but you must choose whether to accept His invitation or turn away.

The Call to Prepare

This Advent, prepare your heart for Christ. Like the shepherds and the magi, seek Him with all your heart. Turn from distractions, pride, and fear, and let Christ reign in your life. The Good Shepherd came to lead, restore, and save. “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His [own] life for the sheep” (John 10:11, AMP). His coming is the greatest gift, offering eternal life to all who follow Him.

A Prayer for Advent

Gracious Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Good Shepherd and Ruler of all. Open our hearts to receive Him fully this Advent season. Lead us in humility to seek His presence, turn from sin, and worship Him with our whole lives. May our hearts be like Bethlehem, prepared for Your glory to dwell. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Shepherd has come, and He invites you to follow Him. Will you respond with humility and faith? Let this Advent be the season you draw nearer to Christ, who reigns forever. Seek Him now, for His light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it.

See Also

Authentic Worship

the Empty House

There once stood a house at the edge of a vast valley, its walls strong but empty, its windows clear yet dimmed by years of neglect. This house had been built by a master craftsman, designed with care, its every detail purposed for beauty and fullness. Yet, for all its design, it stood hollow—void of warmth, echoing with silence. They were yet to begin experiencing God’s glory.

One day, a messenger arrived, bearing an invitation. “The Master desires to fill this house with His glory,” the messenger proclaimed. “But first, the house must be prepared.”

The inhabitants of the house stirred, wondering what this preparation might require. The messenger spoke again: “Empty it of clutter. Cast out all that does not belong. Open every door, every window, and every hidden place, for the Master’s presence will not abide in a divided dwelling.”

The inhabitants hesitated. They had grown accustomed to their clutter—old relics of pride, worn remnants of selfish ambition, and shadows of fear that lingered in the corners. Yet the promise of experiencing God’s glory stirred something deep within them. Slowly, room by room, they began to clear the house. They swept the floors of distraction, tore down idols of self, and cast out burdens that had long weighed them down.

As the house was emptied, light began to seep through its walls. The windows, once dimmed, began to shine with clarity. A hunger grew within the hearts of the inhabitants—a longing for the Master to fill what they had emptied.

When the work was done, the house stood still, its rooms prepared, its doors flung wide. The inhabitants gathered in the great hall, lifting their voices in unity, proclaiming the goodness of the Master. Their song rose like incense, filling the air with the sound of worship.

And then, it happened.

A great wind swept through the valley, rushing into the house with a force both terrifying and beautiful. It was not destructive but consuming, filling every crevice, every corner, every place where emptiness once dwelled. The house began experiencing God’s glory. A brilliant light followed the wind, so dazzling that the inhabitants could only fall to their knees in awe.

The house was no longer empty. It pulsed with the radiant glory of the Master, a glory so overwhelming that all other tasks ceased. The inhabitants could only bow in worship, their hearts aflame with reverence and love.

The messenger’s voice echoed once more: “This is the glory of the Master. It fills what is empty, transforms what is broken, and sanctifies what is prepared. From this day forward, this house shall be a dwelling place for His presence.”

The Invitation for Us

We, too, are this house. We are invited to prepare the temple of our hearts for the glory of the Lord. True worship begins when we humble ourselves, clearing away the clutter of pride, fear, and distraction, and opening every hidden corner to His light. When we press into His presence with awe and hunger, we create space for His brilliance to fill us and for experiencing God’s glory.

And when His glory fills our lives, we are transformed. The work of our hands and the striving of our hearts pale in comparison to the overwhelming beauty of His presence.

So let us come in unity, worshiping with all that we are. Let us proclaim His goodness and invite His glory to dwell within us. For when God’s glory fills the house, no other task matters. Nothing compares to the joy of experiencing God’s glory and being consumed by His presence.

Prayer

Lord, we prepare the temple of our hearts for You. Empty us of all that hinders Your presence and fill us with Your glory. Transform us, sanctify us, and let our lives reflect the brilliance of Your light. May we bow in awe before You, for we long for experiencing Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

See Also

The Pursuit

The Pursuit of God

Beloved, you were created to know God intimately, to walk with Him in deep communion. This is the highest and holiest calling of your life: the pursuit of God. The Scriptures speak of this pursuit with urgency and promise. “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13 AMP). This is no idle search. It is an all-consuming journey that calls for the surrender of our entire being.

God’s Word reminds us of His nearness: “Draw near to God [with a contrite heart] and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8 AMP). He is not distant, but He waits for us to turn our hearts fully to Him, to press past the distractions and noise of the world into His holy presence. The pursuit of God is not for the casual or complacent; it is for those whose hearts burn with a longing to know Him as He truly is.

The Simplicity of Seeking Him

Scripture shows us that God calls us to approach Him with childlike faith. Jesus said, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless you repent [that is, change your inner self—your old way of thinking], and become like children [trusting, humble, and forgiving], you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3 AMP). To pursue God, we must let go of the pride and self-reliance that complicate our approach to Him.

Our pursuit must be stripped down to its essence: a longing to be with God. This simplicity is echoed in David’s cry: “One thing I have asked of the Lord, and that I will seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord [in His presence] all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty [the delightful loveliness and majestic grandeur] of the Lord and to meditate in His temple” (Psalm 27:4 AMP). David’s singular focus reminds us that to pursue God is to desire Him above all else.

Gazing on His Glory

The pursuit of God is not merely about asking for His blessings or guidance; it is about worshiping Him for who He is. Moses cried out, “Please, show me Your glory!” (Exodus 33:18 AMP). This longing to behold God is the heartbeat of every true seeker. In His presence, words often fall away, and we are left in silent awe of His majesty.

To worship God is to recognize that He alone satisfies the deepest hunger of the soul. “As the deer pants [longingly] for the water brooks, so my soul pants [longingly] for You, O God. My soul [my life, my inner self] thirsts for God, for the living God” (Psalm 42:1-2 AMP). This thirst is quenched not by fleeting experiences, but by dwelling in His presence continually.

Dying to Self, Living for Him

The pursuit of God requires a life fully surrendered. Jesus declared, “Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me” (Luke 9:23 AMP). To pursue God, we must let go of our own ambitions, desires, and plans. We must echo the heart of John the Baptist: “He must increase [in prominence], but I must decrease” (John 3:30 AMP).

When we abandon self-reliance and pride, we open the door to deeper intimacy with God. This surrender is not loss but gain. “The kingdom of heaven is like a very precious treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid again; then in his joy he goes and sells all he has and buys that field [securing the treasure for himself]” (Matthew 13:44 AMP). God Himself is the treasure worth everything.

The Invitation

Dear reader, this is your invitation to pursue God with all your heart. Do not settle for knowing about Him when you can know Him intimately. Do not be satisfied with shallow faith when you are called to deep waters. God’s presence is the place where your soul finds its true home. He is inviting you to come closer, to seek Him with purity and passion.

The pursuit of God is not a fleeting effort but a lifelong journey. It is not marked by striving but by surrender. Come before Him, lay aside the weights of this world, and behold the One who satisfies every longing of your heart.

Prayer

Lord, You are our greatest treasure and the deepest desire of our hearts. Forgive us for the times we have pursued lesser things. Teach us to seek You with childlike faith and to come before You with simplicity and surrender. Draw us deeper into Your presence, and let our hearts burn with longing to know You more. May we lay down our lives in pursuit of You, for You alone are worthy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

See Also

The Pursuit

The Pursuit: Seeking to Know Christ Fully

Beloved, there is no greater calling in life than the pursuit of knowing Jesus Christ. This isn’t a passive relationship—it is an active, daily commitment to seek His face and grow in intimacy with Him. The Apostle Paul expressed this longing beautifully:

“And this, so that I may know Him [experientially, becoming more thoroughly acquainted with Him, understanding the remarkable wonders of His Person more completely] and [in that same way experience] the power of His resurrection [which overflows and is active in believers], and [that I may share] the fellowship of His sufferings, by being continually conformed [inwardly into His likeness even] to His death [dying as He did]” (Philippians 3:10, AMP).

Paul’s words resonate with a deep hunger to not just know about Christ but to know Him personally—experientially. This isn’t a pursuit of knowledge alone, but of transformation, rooted in the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings. This is the heart of the Christian life: to seek Him, to know Him, and to reflect His glory.

The Call to Seek His Face

The Bible consistently calls us to seek God with our whole hearts. “Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face continually [longing to be in His presence]” (1 Chronicles 16:11, AMP). To seek His face is to desire intimacy with Him, to press into His presence and make Him the focus of your life.

Charles Spurgeon, in his commentary on Psalm 27:8 (“When You said, ‘Seek My face,’ my heart said to You, ‘Your face, O Lord, I will seek.’”), writes that God’s invitation to seek Him is one of grace and love. Spurgeon describes it as the gentle whisper of a Father calling His children home. This pursuit begins with God drawing us and inviting us into deeper relationship, but it requires our response.

The Power of Pursuit

The pursuit of Christ is not without reward. As we seek Him, He promises to reveal Himself to us. “Draw near to God [with a contrite heart] and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8, AMP). This promise assures us that God is not far off. He desires to be found by those who earnestly seek Him.

Furthermore, this pursuit transforms us. As Paul explains in 2 Corinthians 3:18, “And we all, with unveiled face, continually seeing as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are progressively being transformed into His image from [one degree of] glory to [even more] glory, which comes from the Lord, [who is] the Spirit” (AMP). When we seek Him, His Spirit works in us, making us more like Christ—refining our hearts, renewing our minds, and aligning our lives with His will.

The Fellowship of Suffering

Paul’s words in Philippians 3:10 remind us that knowing Christ deeply involves more than experiencing His power—it also means sharing in His sufferings. While this may sound daunting, it is through these trials that we grow closer to Him. Suffering teaches us to depend fully on God, stripping away our self-reliance and drawing us into a deeper trust in His goodness.

Commentary on this passage often highlights that the “fellowship of suffering” is a sacred bond. When we endure hardships for the sake of Christ, we come to understand His heart more fully. Suffering is not meaningless—it is a path to deeper intimacy with the One who suffered for us.

Shining His Light in the Darkness

As we pursue Christ, His light begins to shine through us. “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ is the One who has shone in our hearts to give us the Light of the knowledge of the glory and majesty of God [clearly revealed] in the face of Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6, AMP). The more we know Him, the more His love and truth radiate from our lives.

In a world filled with darkness, this light is desperately needed. Jesus calls us to be His witnesses, to reflect His glory and point others to the hope we have in Him. “You are the light of [Christ to] the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14, AMP). Your pursuit of Christ is not just for your benefit—it is a testimony to the world of His transforming power and grace.

The Daily Call to Pursue Him

Brother, this pursuit is not a one-time event; it is a daily commitment. Jesus Himself said, “If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and take up his cross daily [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me]” (Luke 9:23, AMP).

Each day presents a new opportunity to seek Him, to know Him more, and to walk in His ways. Don’t let the distractions of life pull you away from this sacred calling. Press in, for the One you seek is faithful and will meet you in your pursuit.

Life Application Questions:

  1. Are you actively pursuing a deeper relationship with God, or has your faith become passive?
  2. What distractions in your life might be keeping you from seeking God’s face daily?
  3. How can you make time each day to intentionally draw near to Him through prayer, worship, or reading His Word?
  4. Have you experienced the power of Christ’s resurrection in your life? How can you share that testimony with others?
  5. Are you willing to embrace the fellowship of His sufferings, trusting that God will use trials to conform you to His image?
  6. How can you let Christ’s light shine through you in your workplace, home, or community this week?
  7. What specific steps can you take to grow in your knowledge of God and live out your faith more boldly?
  8. Are you trusting God to meet you in your pursuit, believing His promise to draw near when you seek Him?

A Prayer for the Pursuit

Father, we long to know You more. Teach us to seek Your face with all our hearts. Draw us into deeper intimacy with You, and let nothing stand in the way of our pursuit. Help us to embrace both the power of Your resurrection and the fellowship of Your sufferings, knowing that You are working all things for our good and Your glory. Transform us into the image of Your Son and let our lives shine as a beacon of Your light in the darkness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Christian Living, Devotion to God

The Prophecy of Immanuel: God With Us

“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Listen carefully, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and she will call his name Immanuel (God with us).” (Isaiah 7:14, AMP)

This verse from Isaiah is a cornerstone of hope for every believer. It is a divine promise—a miraculous sign given by God Himself, proclaiming that He would send a Savior into the world. This was no ordinary sign. It foretold the supernatural, the impossible by human standards: a virgin conceiving a child.

This prophecy reveals the very nature of God. He is not distant or detached; He is Immanuel, “God with us.” From the very beginning, God desired to dwell with His creation, to walk with us in intimacy and fellowship. The birth of Jesus fulfilled this longing in the most profound way. Through Christ, God took on human form, not only to redeem us but to be present in our daily lives, our struggles, and our joys.

When we reflect on this prophecy, we see the heart of God’s plan: a love so deep and so relentless that He would step into time and humanity to rescue us. The virgin birth is a testament to His power and His faithfulness. It reminds us that nothing is impossible for Him. What He promises, He fulfills.

This truth demands our response. The name “Immanuel” is not just a title; it is an invitation. God is with us. Are we with Him? He desires to be present in every part of our lives—not as a distant figure but as our closest companion. As you meditate on this verse, ask yourself: are you living in the reality of His presence? Do you seek Him daily, trusting that He is near and intimately involved in your life?

Let this prophecy stir your faith. No matter what you face, remember that you are not alone.God is with you. Just as He fulfilled this miraculous sign through the birth of Jesus, He will be faithful to fulfill His promises in your life.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Immanuel, “God with us.” You did not leave us in our sin and brokenness but stepped into our world to redeem and restore us. Lord, help us to live in the fullness of Your presence, trusting that You are always near. Increase our faith and draw us closer to You each day. May we never take for granted the miracle of Your love. We seek more of You, Lord—more of Your presence, Your truth, and Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Prophetic Symbolism

Grace of the Plumb

“For who has despised the day of small things? For these seven rejoice to see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. They are the eyes of the LORD, which scan to and fro throughout the whole earth.” — Zechariah 4:10 (AMP)

Beloved, the Lord teaches us not to scorn small beginnings, for what seems insignificant in human eyes is often the foundation of His greatest works. Zerubbabel’s temple, modest compared to Solomon’s, began with a single plumb line in his hand. Yet, this was no ordinary moment—it was the fulfillment of divine purpose and the grace of the plumb. The “seven eyes of the LORD” represent His perfect wisdom and vigilant care, watching over every step of the process. God rejoices in the faithful work of His servants, no matter how small, because every act of obedience moves His plan forward.

The plumb line, a tool for alignment and accuracy, reflects the Lord’s commitment to precision and righteousness in His work. The construction of Zerubbabel’s temple serves as a profound image of God’s spiritual work in His people. Just as the plumb line ensures a building’s integrity, so does God’s Word and Spirit align our lives with His holiness. “I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plummet,” says the Lord (Isaiah 28:17, AMP). Anything that is misaligned must be corrected, for the temple of the Lord must be perfect and unshakable by the grace of the plumb.

Consider this: the “day of small things” is not a day of insignificance, but of preparation. When the people saw the beginning of the temple, they lamented its simplicity, forgetting that the Lord often uses what is small to confound the mighty. He chose David, the youngest of his brothers, to slay the giant. He took a small band of disciples to change the world. “God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong” (1 Corinthians 1:27, AMP). The plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand is a symbol of this divine paradox: what starts small in the hands of man is mighty when guided by the hand of God.

The seven eyes of the Lord, scanning to and fro throughout the earth, remind us of His sovereignty and omnipresence. Nothing escapes His gaze; every stone, every line, every effort is seen and judged by Him. This is both a comfort and a challenge, for He rejoices in faithfulness but removes anything unworthy of His temple. “Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that continues to bear fruit, He repeatedly prunes so that it will bear more fruit” (John 15:2, AMP). The pruning and alignment may be painful, but they are necessary for the completion of His work.

Jesus, the true Master Builder, is the fulfillment of Zerubbabel’s work. He is the cornerstone, chosen and precious, upon whom the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord (1 Peter 2:6, Ephesians 2:20-21, AMP). He holds the plumb line of righteousness in His hand, and He will not rest until the capstone is laid with shouts of grace and glory. The grace of the plumb is evident in His work. The Lord’s pleasure prospers in His hand, and He will not fail (Isaiah 53:10).

Let this truth encourage your heart: the work He has begun in you, though it may seem small, is being carefully constructed by His wisdom and power. He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6, AMP). Trust in His process. Submit to His plumb line, and rejoice in the grace of the plumb, for His hand will bring all things into perfect alignment.

O Lord Jesus, the true Builder and Redeemer, we praise You for Your faithfulness to complete what You have started. Align our hearts and lives with Your righteousness, remove what is misaligned, and strengthen us to trust in Your perfect timing. May we see Your work rise in glory, as every stone is set in place to reflect Your majesty. Amen.

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