Category Archives: The Pursuit

Humility, Repentance, The Pursuit

Called to Holiness: A Daily Pursuit of Christ

Beloved, the call to holiness is not a suggestion—it is an invitation to live in the fullness of Christ’s love and to bear witness to the wonders of His transforming power. “But just as He who called you is holy, be holy in all you do; for it is written, ‘Be holy, because I am holy’” (1 Peter 1:15-16, AMP). This is the call of every believer: to reflect the holiness of the One who saved us. We must pursue holiness daily in Christ.

Yet, like Paul, we often feel the weight of our struggle: “For I do not do the good I want, but I practice the very evil that I do not want” (Romans 7:19, AMP). This tension can leave us discouraged, but do not lose heart! God has not left us to fight this battle alone. We are called to pursue holiness daily in Christ.

1 Corinthians 10:13 (NASB 2020) assures us: “No temptation has overtaken you except something common to mankind; and God is faithful, so He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.” God’s faithfulness ensures that no matter how fierce the battle, His power is greater still, encouraging us to pursue holiness daily in Christ.

To pursue holiness is to pursue Christ Himself. “Set your mind and keep focused habitually on the things above [the heavenly things], not on things that are on the earth [which have only temporal value]” (Colossians 3:2, AMP). This is a daily pursuit—a moment-by-moment decision to draw near to God, surrendering our desires to Him and seeking His presence above all else.

When you walk in holiness, you become a living testimony of Christ’s work within you. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14, AMP). As God transforms you, your life becomes a witness to others, a radiant reflection of His love, grace, and power. Your pursuit of holiness is not just for you; it is for the world to see the wonders of what Christ is doing in you each day.

Do not grow weary in this pursuit. When the road feels hard, remember that the power of God is at work in you. “For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13, AMP).

So press into Him daily. Confess your sins quickly, knowing He is faithful to forgive (1 John 1:9). Pursue holiness daily in Christ by seeking His face in prayer, meditating on His Word, and letting the Holy Spirit guide your every step. Let your life shine as a testimony of His goodness, drawing others to the Savior who is still at work in you.

Prayer

Holy Father, You have called us to be holy as You are holy. We confess that we often stumble, but we thank You for Your faithfulness and the power of Your Spirit at work within us. Draw us closer to You each day, teaching us to walk in Your ways and to reflect the beauty of Your holiness. Let our lives be a testimony to Your transforming power, that others may see Christ in us and be drawn to You. May we hunger for more of You and live as a light in this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Repentance, Revival, The Pursuit

The Pride of Cities: Resistance to Revival in New England

New England, often regarded as the cradle of American Christianity, has a dual legacy. It was the birthplace of great spiritual movements, yet it also resisted the transformative power of revival. This pride of cities, evident during the Great Awakenings, serves as a cautionary tale and a call for repentance and a return to God. The New England Revival Resistance demonstrates the region’s complex relationship with spiritual renewal.

New England’s Resistance to Revival

The Great Awakenings swept through many parts of New England, but several cities resisted the movement due to intellectual pride, cultural elitism, or adherence to secular and traditional religious values. Below are examples of cities that exemplified this resistance, with references for further reading.

1. Boston, Massachusetts

• Resistance: Known as the “Athens of America,” Boston resisted the emotional fervor of the Great Awakenings. During the First Great Awakening, Charles Chauncy, minister of the First Church of Boston, criticized revivalist George Whitefield, calling his methods fanatical and divisive (American Religious History, Christianity Today).

• Historical Example: Harvard University published the Testimony Against the Revivals in 1743, denouncing the movement (Harvard Historical Records).

2. Worcester, Massachusetts

• Resistance: During the Second Great Awakening, Worcester’s intellectual and Unitarian roots resisted revivalist preaching. Preachers like Charles Finney were discouraged from entering the city, as revivalism conflicted with Worcester’s rationalist preferences (Religious Revivals in Worcester County, American Antiquarian Society).

• Cultural Barrier: Worcester’s industrial growth contributed to spiritual complacency (Worcester: City of Progress, Worcester Historical Museum).

3. Salem, Massachusetts

• Resistance: Despite its Puritan heritage, Salem’s clergy opposed the emotionalism of the Great Awakenings. Revivalist methods were seen as unnecessary and disruptive (The Legacy of the Salem Churches, Salem Historical Society).

4. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

• Resistance: Portsmouth’s thriving economy and secular priorities created barriers to revivalist movements. Local leaders were cautious of revivalist fervor (Portsmouth and the Great Awakenings, New Hampshire Historical Society).

5. Hartford, Connecticut

• Resistance: Hartford’s Congregationalist traditions resisted the emotional appeals of revivalists. Charles Finney described Hartford as “religious but not personal” in its faith (Second Great Awakening in Connecticut, Connecticut Historical Society).

6. Providence, Rhode Island

• Resistance: Providence, with its emphasis on religious freedom, hesitated to embrace the collective fervor of the Great Awakenings. Dwight L. Moody struggled to ignite revival in this skeptical city (The Religious Landscape of Rhode Island, Providence Journal).

7. New Haven, Connecticut

• Resistance: New Haven, home to Yale University, became a hub of theological liberalism. Academic leaders often rejected revivalist movements (Yale and the Great Awakening, Yale University Archives).

8. Concord, Massachusetts

• Resistance: Concord’s Transcendentalist movement, led by Ralph Waldo Emerson, rejected evangelical Christianity in favor of individual spirituality (Transcendentalism and Religious Reform, Concord Museum).

A Call to Repentance and Return to God

The resistance of these cities to revival serves as a warning for us today. Pride and self-reliance are dangerous obstacles to spiritual renewal. Scripture reminds us: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18, AMP).

Yet God’s promise remains: “If My people, who are called by My name, humble themselves, and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear them from heaven and forgive their sin and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14, AMP).

Revival begins with repentance. If we humble ourselves, pray, and seek God, He will transform our hearts and our cities.

Prayer for New England

Heavenly Father, we repent of the pride and resistance that have hindered Your work in our cities and our hearts. Forgive us for relying on our own wisdom, wealth, and traditions instead of seeking You. Pour out Your Spirit upon New England once again. Break down the barriers of pride and unbelief. Revive our homes, churches, and communities for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Repentance, The Pursuit, Visions

The Sword of Revival

In the heavens, I saw the throne of God surrounded by a great cloud of incense, rising like a sweet fragrance. It was the prayers of the humble—those who wept in secret, those who cried out for mercy, and those who longed for the presence of the Lord with all their hearts. Their prayers carried the essence of brokenness, repentance, and surrender, and they ascended together, joined as one voice, to the One who hears the cries of His people.

Then I saw the Lord reach down with His hand and gather the incense. It glowed like molten gold, alive with power and holiness. With His divine authority, He forged it into a sword, brilliant and blazing with fire. Its edge gleamed with the truth of His Word, and its hilt was engraved with the prayers of His saints, woven together in unity. The sword pulsed with a living light, and as it was completed, the Spirit of the Lord spoke:

“This is the Sword of Revival. It is forged from the prayers of the repentant, sanctified by My holiness, and empowered by My Spirit. It shall go forth to shatter the chains of darkness, break the strongholds of sin, and pierce the hearts of the lost. Only the humble and united shall wield it, for My glory rests upon those who are one as I am one with the Father.” The Sword of Revival is a testament to the power of unified prayer.

The Lord extended the sword to the remnant—those who had laid down their pride, turned from their sin, and sought Him with all their hearts. I saw them not as scattered individuals, but as a body, joined together in love and purpose. They took the sword with trembling hands, their voices lifted as one, crying, “Come, Lord Jesus! Reign in us and through us!” A voice like rushing waters called out, “Go now, for the hour of revival is at hand. Lift up the sword, proclaim My Word, and let My Spirit flow through you!”

And I saw the remnant arise, moving in unity, their steps guided by the Spirit, their voices filled with boldness. Wherever they lifted the Sword of Revival, rivers of living water flowed before them. The water surged into dry, cracked lands, bringing life where there had been death. Deserts bloomed, trees of righteousness took root, and their fruit brought healing to the nations. The fragrance of life filled the air, mingling with the sound of angelic shofars that echoed across the heavens, announcing the glory of the Lord.

As the sword moved, chains fell from captives, strongholds crumbled, and blind eyes were opened. The remnant cried aloud, “Repent and return to the Lord, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love!” (Joel 2:13, AMP). Multitudes came, weeping in repentance, drawn by the Spirit. The fire of revival ignited in hearts, spreading like a holy blaze that could not be quenched. The Sword of Revival played a central role in this awakening.

I saw the remnant gather together in prayer, their hands lifted not for themselves, but for one another. They cried out, “Lord, make us one, as You and the Father are one! Let there be no division among us, but unite us in Your Spirit, that the world may see Your glory!” Their unity became a beacon, shining brightly in the darkness, and the Spirit poured out in fullness. Fires of revival ignited across cities, counties, and nations as the people of God moved as one body under one King with the Sword of Revival.

The heavens resounded as the Lord proclaimed: “This is the hour of My great outpouring! Let those who have ears to hear, repent. Humble yourselves before Me, love one another, and I will heal your land. My rivers will not cease, and My fire will not be quenched. The sword is ready, but only the surrendered and the united can wield it.”

To you, dear reader, hear this call: The Lord is extending the Sword of Revival to His people. But it is not given lightly. Lay down your pride, your sin, your idols, and even your offenses. Humble yourself before Him and seek unity with the saints. Let your prayers rise as incense, and let Him forge in you a vessel for His glory. The Spirit is moving, the time is now, and the call is clear—repent, unite, and let His glory flow through you. Will you take up the call and wield the Sword of Revival?

Prayer:

Father, we come before You with broken and contrite hearts. We repent of our sins and lay down our pride. Forgive us for the divisions among us, and teach us to love one another as You have loved us. Cleanse us, Lord, and make us one body, united in purpose and filled with Your Spirit. Take our prayers, our tears, and our surrender, and forge them into instruments for Your glory. Let Your living water flow through us, breaking chains, healing hearts, and igniting revival with the power of the Sword of Revival. Use us to bring life to the barren places, and let Your glory cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

See Also

Repentance, Revival, The Pursuit

Walking Out Repentance: A Call to Holiness

Beloved, revival begins with repentance, but not the fleeting kind where tears are shed and sins are confessed at an altar. Walking out repentance means living a lifestyle of turning from sin and pursuing God daily. It requires us to recognize the depths of our own sin, confront it, and rely on the Holy Spirit for transformation. We are all filthy with sin, and without God’s mercy, we remain unclean. Yet, His grace calls us to repentance—not out of condemnation, but out of His desire to restore us fully to Himself.

The Word of God is clear: “And My people, who are called by My Name, humble themselves, and pray and seek (crave, require as a necessity) My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear [them] from heaven, and forgive their sin and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14 AMP). However, repentance is more than an acknowledgment of sin—it’s a turning from sin and a walking forward in obedience.

The Weight of Our Sin

We must admit this truth: we are all sinners. Our hearts are deceitful, and our sins are often deeply ingrained. Some sins are visible, but many are hidden—comfortable sins that have become part of our daily routines, sins so familiar we don’t even notice them. When we pray as David did, “Search me [thoroughly], O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts” (Psalm 139:23 AMP), the Holy Spirit reveals these hidden sins.

This process can feel overwhelming. The pride we justify, the envy we excuse, the idolatry we ignore—all are exposed before the holiness of God. Our sins are not small, and we cannot love God while clinging to them. Jesus commanded: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37 AMP). True repentance begins when we love Him more than the fleeting comfort of sin.

The Call to Brokenness

Beloved, repentance must break our hearts. We cannot change unless we see sin as God does—offensive and destructive. “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and contrite heart [broken with sorrow for sin, thoroughly penitent], such, O God, You will not despise” (Psalm 51:17 AMP). This brokenness is not a sign of despair; it’s the fertile soil where God’s grace can take root.

Walking out repentance requires not only sorrow over sin but a willingness to turn from it completely. We must lay down our pride and cry out for God’s mercy. This is the starting point for revival—not just personal revival but the revival of families, churches, and even nations.

Fighting the Battle Against Sin

Turning from sin is not a one-time decision; it’s a daily battle. Temptation is relentless, and sin often reappears through the habits we’ve built over time. Many sins become so ingrained that we fall into them almost automatically, out of “muscle memory.” That’s why Scripture warns us: “Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion [fiercely hungry], seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8 AMP).

The key to victory is not our own strength but reliance on the Holy Spirit. The Word of God is both our weapon and shield in the fight against temptation. “Your word I have treasured and stored in my heart, That I may not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11 AMP). By meditating on Scripture, we arm ourselves with truth and align our hearts with God’s will.

Choosing God Over Sin

When temptation comes, we must pause and notice it, rather than falling into sin unconsciously. Walking out repentance means choosing, moment by moment, to love God more than sin. It is not easy, but the Holy Spirit strengthens us in our weakness. As Paul wrote, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for My power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9 AMP).

Revival Through Repentance

Beloved, let us come to God in humility, acknowledging that we cannot cleanse ourselves. Only God can heal our brokenness and revive our spirits. Revival begins in the heart of every believer who chooses to walk out repentance daily. As we surrender to God, His grace not only forgives us but transforms us, creating in us a heart that longs for holiness.

Pray this with me:

“Lord, I am filthy with sin, and I confess my need for Your cleansing. Break my heart for what breaks Yours, and help me turn from the sins I have grown comfortable with. Search me, Lord, and reveal every hidden sin. Strengthen me by Your Spirit to resist temptation and to choose You over sin, every moment of every day. Let revival begin in my heart, for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

As we walk out repentance, let us press into God daily. Revival comes to those who humble themselves, seek His face, and turn from sin—not just once, but again and again. May we live lives of continual repentance, for this is the path to true holiness and the outpouring of God’s presence.

See Also

Prayers, Repentance, The Pursuit, Unity

Awaken the Nations

Prayer for Revival and Holiness

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with humble hearts, longing for Your presence to move powerfully in our lives and across the nations. Lord, we cry out for revival—start with us. Search our hearts and reveal the sins we have grown comfortable with, those hidden things that grieve Your Spirit. Forgive us for the pride, compromise, and complacency we have allowed to take root.

Cleanse us, Lord, and create in us clean hearts. Renew a steadfast spirit within us, as Your Word promises in Psalm 51:10 (AMP). Teach us to love what You love and turn away from anything that separates us from You. Let holiness be our pursuit and repentance our daily practice, as we surrender fully to Your will.

Father, as You transform us, let this revival overflow into our families, communities, and nations. Let Your Church rise up in holiness, boldness, and power, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ without fear or compromise. May we shine as lights in a dark world, pointing all people to You.

We ask that You pour out Your Spirit on every tribe, tongue, and nation. Shake the foundations of this world and make Yourself known in power and glory. Call leaders, rulers, and the lost to repentance, and let the sound of the shofar awaken all to the reality of Your sovereignty.

Lord, let Your glory cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. May we live lives that honor You, as we walk in holiness and reflect Your love to all. Revival begins with personal surrender, so we lay ourselves before You now, trusting in Your grace and strength.

In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

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Revival, The Pursuit, Visions

A Vision of Pursuit: The Call of the Holy One

And I looked, and behold, a great and radiant throne, high and lifted up, and One sat upon it whose glory filled the heavens. His face shone like the brilliance of the sun, and from His throne flowed rivers of fire and living water, rushing with life and power. Around Him was an innumerable multitude, crying out with a single voice, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come!”

Then I heard the voice of the Lamb, like the roar of many waters, calling to the earth, saying, “Awaken, My beloved! Return to Me, for I am your Creator, your First Love, the One who formed you and called you by name. Come to Me, all who are weary, all who thirst for righteousness, all who hunger for life. Seek Me, not for the works of My hands, but for the beauty of My face. Pursue Me with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, for I am near.”

And the Spirit said, “See now what happens when the beloved awaken to His call and return to their Lord.”

I saw the saints arise, their spirits ignited like flames. They cast aside every weight, every chain, and every distraction that had held them captive. Their hearts burned with longing, their eyes fixed on the Lamb. As they awakened to Him and returned to their First Love, I saw the veil of this world torn away. The noise of the earth grew faint, and the burdens they carried dissolved like mist in the light of His glory. The Spirit declared, “Return to Me, for I have redeemed you” (Isaiah 44:22), and “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom”(2 Corinthians 3:17).

Then I beheld the Lamb as He stepped down from His throne, His robes shimmering with the light of heaven. His arms stretched wide, and His voice thundered, “Awaken and return to Me: Be released!” At His word, chains shattered, fear fled, and darkness was swallowed up in His radiance. His people, clothed in garments of white, pressed forward into His presence, crying out, “You alone are worthy! You are our desire!”

And I saw signs and wonders break forth, not because the people sought them, but because they sought Him. Healing flowed like rivers, washing over the nations. Hearts were mended, bodies restored, and the weary were renewed. But their eyes never left the Lamb, for they pursued not the miracles, but the Miracle Worker. The Spirit declared, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied” (Matthew 5:6).

The saints fell before His throne, consumed by the beauty of His presence. They sang, “Whom have we in heaven but You? And besides You, we desire nothing on earth” (Psalm 73:25). The distractions of the world melted away, and all that remained was the fullness of joy in His presence.

And the Lamb turned His face toward them, and I heard Him say, “Well done, My beloved. You have awakened and returned to Me with all your heart. Enter now into the joy of your Lord, for I have prepared a place for you.”

Then the Spirit cried out, “Awaken, O children of God! Return to the Holy One who loves you with an everlasting love. Seek not what He gives, but who He is. Cast aside every weight, and run to the One who is worthy of all devotion.”

And I beheld the heavens resounding with the cry of the redeemed, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty!”

Will you answer the call, beloved? Awaken. Return. He is waiting for you. Run to Him.

Prayer of Awakening and Return

Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, recognizing that we have allowed the distractions of this world to cloud our vision of You. We confess that we have often sought Your hand more than Your face, and we ask for Your forgiveness. Lord, awaken our hearts to the beauty of who You are. Stir within us a holy desire to return to You, our First Love, and to seek You with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength.

Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, whose blood has opened the way for us to enter Your presence. We thank You that through Him, every chain is broken, every burden lifted, and every sin forgiven. Lord, we pray that You would draw us closer to Yourself. Remove the distractions that vie for our attention and fix our eyes on You, the author and finisher of our faith.

Help us to hunger and thirst for righteousness, to pursue You not for what You can give, but for who You are. Teach us to delight in Your presence and to rest in the assurance of Your unfailing love. May Your Spirit fill us with boldness, freedom, and joy as we step into the fullness of life You have called us to live.

Lord, we pray for revival in our hearts, our homes, and our communities. Awaken Your people to the truth of Your Word. Call us back to You, O God, and set our hearts on fire for Your kingdom. May Your glory fill the earth as Your people rise to proclaim Your greatness.

We surrender all that we are to You today, Lord. Take our lives, our hopes, and our dreams, and use them for Your glory. May we be vessels of Your love, shining Your light in a world that so desperately needs You.

We love You, Lord, and we long to know You more. Awaken us. Draw us back to You. And let Your name be praised forever and ever. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

See Also

The Pursuit

The Soul’s Great Paradox: Finding God and Still Pursuing Him

A.W. Tozer beautifully described a profound truth when he wrote, “To have found God and still to pursue Him is the soul’s paradox of love.” This mysterious and exhilarating paradox lies at the heart of the Christian life. It speaks to the tension between contentment and longing, between satisfaction in God and the unquenchable desire for more of Him. 

At first glance, the paradox seems contradictory. How can we have found God—beholding His glory, experiencing His love, and walking in His presence—yet feel a yearning to seek Him further? But this is the nature of the infinite God. He is so vast, so boundless, that even eternity will not exhaust the depths of His being.

The Satisfaction of Finding Him

When we first encounter God, our souls are filled with a peace and joy we never thought possible. We realize that He alone satisfies the deepest longings of our hearts. Every restless search for meaning and fulfillment finds its resolution in the love of God. This is the profound contentment of the believer—to know that in Christ, we are fully known, fully loved, and fully secure.

“O taste and see that the Lord [our God] is good; How blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who takes refuge in Him.” (Psalm 34:8 AMP)

This is the first step in the paradox: to know that in Him, we lack nothing. We are complete in Christ (Colossians 2:10), and we rejoice in the abundance of His provision for our souls.

The Hunger for More

Yet, as we taste God’s goodness, an unexplainable hunger begins to stir within us—a longing for more of Him. This is not dissatisfaction; it is the recognition that the more we experience God, the more we realize there is to know, love, and worship. Our hearts, awakened to His glory, are drawn deeper into the pursuit of His presence.

David expressed this paradox beautifully: “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. When will I come and see the face of God?” (Psalm 42:1–2 AMP)

This longing is not a reflection of emptiness but of love. As lovers desire to know each other more deeply, our love for God compels us to seek Him more intimately.

The Eternal Pursuit

The paradox reaches its fullness when we realize that the pursuit of God is eternal. Even in heaven, when we stand in His presence, we will not cease to seek Him. We will see Him more clearly than ever, yet His infinite nature continually invites us into deeper awe and worship.

Paul writes, “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and decisions and how unfathomable and inscrutable are His ways!” (Romans 11:33 AMP). This unsearchable depth ensures that our relationship with God will never grow stale or routine. There will always be more of His beauty to behold, more of His love to experience, and more of His glory to reflect.

The Call to Press In

In this life, the soul’s paradox calls us to press into God daily. We must never settle for a surface-level faith or a shallow understanding of Him. The satisfaction we find in Him is the very thing that fuels our desire for more. Like the Apostle Paul, we say:

“[For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [experientially, becoming more thoroughly acquainted with Him, understanding the remarkable wonders of His Person more completely]…” (Philippians 3:10 AMP)

This pursuit requires intentionality. It is a daily choice to seek His face, to dwell in His Word, and to commune with Him in prayer. It means pushing past distractions, laying down idols, and surrendering fully to His Spirit. 

Living the Paradox

The soul’s great paradox transforms how we live. It keeps us humble, for we recognize that we have only scratched the surface no matter how much we know of God. It keeps us hungry, for deeper intimacy is always possible. And it keeps us hopeful, for we are assured that the God we seek is faithful to reveal Himself to those who earnestly pursue Him.

“But without faith it is impossible to [walk with God and] please Him, for whoever comes [near] to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He rewards those who [earnestly and diligently] seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6 AMP)

The Invitation

This paradox is not a burden but a blessing. It is the evidence of a living relationship with the infinite God. To have found Him and still to pursue Him is the hallmark of a heart that truly loves Him. The question is: will we embrace the paradox? Will we allow the satisfaction of His presence to stir within us an unrelenting desire for more of Him?

Let us pray:

Father, we thank You for the mystery of knowing You. You have given us Yourself, yet You call us to seek You continually. Teach us to embrace this paradox, finding joy in Your presence and pressing into deeper intimacy with You each day. Stir within us an unquenchable hunger for more of You, that we may reflect Your glory and know the fullness of Your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

See Also

The Pursuit

Press into God’s presence

Beloved, do you hear the call of the Lord, beckoning you to come closer, to press into His presence, and to abide in His love? The words of Paul in Philippians 3 echo the heartbeat of Scripture—a divine summons to forsake the fleeting treasures of this world and lay hold of the eternal treasure of knowing Christ Jesus our Lord.

“Abide in Me, and I in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you [bear fruit, producing evidence of your faith], unless you abide in Me” (John 15:4 AMP). Pressing into God begins with abiding—dwelling in Him as the source of all life and sustenance. It is in His presence that we find strength, wisdom, and the power to be conformed to His image. Press into God’s presence with a heart that seeks His face.

Consider the words of the psalmist: “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). Pressing into God requires a singular focus, a holy determination to pursue Him above all else. The world may offer distractions, but those who seek Him lack no good thing (Psalm 34:10).

Beloved, we are not called to pursue God with half-hearted devotion but with a heart ablaze with holy longing. John reminds us of the magnitude of God’s love: “See what an incredible quality of love the Father has shown to us, that we would [be permitted to] be named and called and counted as the children of God!” (1 John 3:1 AMP). If God has loved us so deeply, how can we not respond with an unyielding desire to know Him more intimately and press into His presence?

Paul’s pursuit of Christ resonates with the cry of those who long to go deeper: “I count everything as loss compared to the priceless privilege and supreme advantage of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (Philippians 3:8 AMP). Yet this is not a journey of self-effort; it is one of dependence on His grace. “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord of hosts (Zechariah 4:6 AMP). Pressing into God requires humility, a surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit who empowers us to draw near and press into His presence.

The apostle John paints a vivid picture of the rewards of pressing into God: “And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true [supreme and sovereign] God, and [in the same manner know] Jesus [as the] Christ whom You have sent” (John 17:3 AMP). To know Him is life itself—eternal, abundant, and overflowing.

Do not grow weary, dear one. Press in with all your heart. Fix your eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). Forget what lies behind and strain forward to what lies ahead (Philippians 3:13-14). As you abide in Him, as you press into the depths of His love, you will discover the fullness of joy and the power of resurrection life, pressing into God’s presence with hope and faith.

Sharing His Goodness with the World

Beloved, as you press into God and abide in His love, His heart becomes your heart. You cannot taste the goodness of God and keep it to yourself. The world is filled with those wandering in darkness, unaware of the hope and joy found in Christ. Jesus declared, “You are the light of [Christ to] the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14 AMP). As you dwell in Him, His light shines through you, drawing the lost to the Savior and showing them the way to press into God’s presence.

Do not fear sharing His goodness, for the same Spirit who empowers you to abide also equips you to proclaim the Gospel. Paul reminds us, “How will they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher [or messenger]?” (Romans 10:14 AMP). You are God’s chosen messenger, sent to testify of His unfailing love and salvation through Christ.

Let your life, rooted in intimacy with God, overflow with His grace and truth. Extend a hand to the brokenhearted. Speak boldly to those who are searching. Show the world that the same God who transformed you can bring them into the fullness of life. “Taste and see that the Lord [our God] is good; how blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who takes refuge in Him” (Psalm 34:8 AMP). Indeed, press into God’s presence and let His goodness overflow from your life.

Prayer:

Father, as we press into Your presence, let us not hold back from sharing Your goodness with those who are lost. Fill us with boldness to proclaim Your truth, wisdom to reach the searching, and love to reflect Your heart. Let our lives be living testimonies of Your grace, drawing others to the salvation found in Christ alone. May Your light shine through us, Lord, for Your glory and the building of Your Kingdom as we press into Your holy presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Faith, The Pursuit

The Cost of Saying Yes to God

Beloved, what would it take for you to trust God completely? Not just in the easy moments, but when the stakes are high, the future is uncertain, and the cost feels unbearable. Blind, unconditional faith is not about ignorance; it is about trust—a trust so deep that before God even asks, your heart cries, “Yes, Lord!”

Abraham stands as a towering example of this kind of faith. When God commanded him to sacrifice Isaac, his promised son, Abraham obeyed without hesitation. “By faith Abraham, when he was tested [that is, as the testing of his faith was still in progress], offered up Isaac” (Hebrews 11:17 AMP). Abraham didn’t demand answers or explanations; he trusted that God’s promises are unshakable and that His ways are always perfect. Can you say the same? Would you lay down what is most precious to you, knowing God’s plan is greater? Abraham’s faith came from seeking God’s presence continually.

The prophet Isaiah’s response to God’s call echoes the same surrender. When God asked, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Isaiah didn’t hesitate. He declared, “Here I am. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8 AMP). He didn’t ask about the mission or the dangers involved. He simply trusted that to obey God was the highest honor.

Mary and Joseph, too, modeled this unwavering obedience. Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38 AMP), even though her “yes” invited public shame and possible death. Joseph obeyed the angel’s command to take Mary as his wife and protect the unborn Savior, despite the whispers of scandal and the uncertainty of the road ahead. Their faith was not blind to the cost; it was fixed on the God who is faithful. Their actions showed that seeking God’s presence was paramount in their lives.

Now, beloved, I ask you: where is your faith? Are you holding back parts of your life, waiting for assurances or guarantees before you obey? Or is your heart fully surrendered, saying, “Yes, Lord,” before you even know the question? Blind unconditional faith is not a leap into the dark; it is a leap into the arms of a God who has never failed. Your leap begins with seeking God’s presence daily.

The world needs men and women like Abraham, Isaiah, Mary, and Joseph—people who trust God no matter the cost. Rise up and say, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.” Let your life be a testimony of faith that inspires others to lay down their fears and follow Him with reckless abandon. By seeking God’s presence, you inspire others to deepen their faith.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts longing to trust You more. Teach us to say “yes” before You even ask, to follow You with bold, unconditional faith. Strip away our fears and hesitation, and fill us with the courage to obey You no matter the cost. May our lives echo the words of Isaiah: “Here I am, send me.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now is the time to surrender, beloved. God is calling—will you answer?

See Also

Advent, The Pursuit

Pursuing the Savior Who Transforms Everything

Beloved, tonight the heavens declare the most profound truth: God has come near. The child born in a manger is no ordinary child—He is the Savior of the world, sent by God to redeem you, love you, and draw you into an eternal relationship with Him. Christmas Eve is not just a celebration; it is an invitation to press into God with all your heart and find Him waiting for you. This season reminds us of the importance of Christmas pressing into God.

Let this night awaken a holy longing in your soul—not for earthly comforts but for the One who came to bring you life. Do not settle for less than the fullness of His presence. Press in, pursue Him, and discover the joy of knowing Jesus Christ, the Savior born for you.

The Pursuit of God

Scripture promises us: “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13, AMP). Christmas is the story of God’s pursuit of us—He stepped down from heaven to dwell among us, so that we could be brought near to Him. But this relationship is not one-sided. God calls us to seek Him, to press into His presence, and to pursue Him with passion and faith. This Christmas, pressing into God can bring renewed hope.

Do not let the busyness of the season distract you from this holy pursuit. Let your heart hunger for more of Him, and He will fill you with the peace and joy only He can give. Just as the wise men followed the star to find the King of Kings, pursue Him tonight, and He will guide you into the light of His love.

Surrendering in Faith

Beloved, the pursuit of God begins with surrender. What are you holding back from Him this Christmas Eve? The angel declared to Mary: “For nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37, AMP). The God who came to earth as a baby is the same God who holds the power to redeem every part of your life. Turn it all over to Him—your worries, your fears, your plans—and trust Him to work all things together for good.

Do not let the weight of your burdens keep you from pressing into God’s presence. Jesus said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, AMP). Lay it all at His feet tonight, and pursue Him with a heart full of faith.

Anchored in the Savior

On that first Christmas Eve, 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). This truth is not just for the world—it is for you. The Savior has come to transform your life, to draw you close, and to satisfy the deepest longing of your soul. This special night calls us to focus on Christmas by pressing into God with faith and devotion.

Pursue Him, beloved, as He has pursued you. Just as the shepherds left their flocks to seek Him, and the wise men traveled far to worship Him, let nothing keep you from the Savior. His birth is the beginning of the greatest story ever told, and it is a story that invites you to be a part of it.

A Call to Press In

This Christmas Eve, make the decision to pursue God with your whole heart. Do not settle for traditions or fleeting joys. Press into His presence, pursue Him in prayer and worship, and surrender fully to the Savior who came to redeem you. Christmas is not about what you can get; it is about the God who has already given you everything in Jesus Christ.

As you pursue Him, He will meet you. He will fill your heart with His peace, and He will lead you into the fullness of His love. The pursuit of God is not the end of the journey—it is the beginning of the life you were created to live.

A Prayer for Christmas Eve

Heavenly Father,

On this holy night, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Stir in our hearts a hunger to pursue You above all else. Help us to press into Your presence, surrender everything to You, and trust You with our lives. Fill us with the joy and peace that come from knowing You. Let this Christmas Eve be the start of a deeper, richer walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This Christmas Eve, press in and pursue God with all your heart. He is waiting for you, ready to pour out His love and transform your life. Do not settle for anything less than the joy of knowing Him and living fully in His presence.

See Also