Tag Archives: Intimacy with God

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!”

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

Calls

Do You Know the Good Shepherd?

Jesus declares, “I am the Good Shepherd, and I know [without any doubt those who are] My own and My own know Me [and have a deep, personal relationship with Me]” (John 10:14 AMP). These words are not just an invitation; they are a declaration of intimacy, security, and belonging. The question is not whether the Shepherd knows you—He knows every detail of your life. The question is: Do you know Him?

The Good Shepherd does not offer a distant, mechanical relationship. He offers Himself fully—His protection, His provision, and His presence. He longs for a deep, personal relationship with you. Yet, this relationship requires more than casual acknowledgment. It demands that you press into Him daily, forsaking the distractions and counterfeit comforts of this world.

Jesus also said, “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27 AMP). To truly know the Shepherd, you must learn to recognize His voice. Are you listening? Are you carving out time to sit in the stillness of His presence, reading His Word and allowing Him to speak to your heart? In a world filled with competing voices, the voice of the Good Shepherd is your anchor. He will never lead you astray.

The challenge is this: Do you trust Him enough to follow Him wherever He leads? Jesus said, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23 AMP). Following the Shepherd requires surrender—laying down your plans, your desires, and your pride. But the reward is eternal. “I came that they may have life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]” (John 10:10 AMP).

Beloved, the Good Shepherd laid down His life for you. He bore the cross so you could walk in freedom. What will you lay down for Him? Will you leave behind the sins that entangle you? Will you cast off the fear that keeps you from walking boldly in your calling? Will you surrender your heart fully to Him, trusting that He knows what is best for you?

The time to respond is now. Let today be the day you take a step closer to the Good Shepherd. Spend time in His Word, meditate on His promises, and pour out your heart to Him in prayer. Remember, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8 AMP).

A Prayer for Surrender

Lord Jesus, my Good Shepherd, I hear Your voice calling me. I come to You now, laying down everything that keeps me from fully knowing You. Teach me to trust You in every area of my life. Help me to follow where You lead, even when the path is uncertain. Give me ears to hear Your voice above the noise of the world and a heart that is fully surrendered to You. I want more of You, Lord—less of me and more of You. Draw me closer each day, and let my life glorify Your holy name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

He is calling you. Will you follow?

See Also

The Pursuit

Press In and Seek the Lord’s Presence

Beloved, there is a longing within the heart of every believer—a desire to go beyond the surface and press into the depths of God’s presence. This is not a shallow pursuit; it is a holy hunger that drives us to seek Him with all we are. Scripture calls us to this pursuit: “Then [with a deep longing] you will seek Me and require Me [as a vital necessity], and [you will] find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13, AMP). We must press in and seek the Lord’s presence every day.

Think of Paul and Silas, beaten and chained in a dark prison. They did not focus on their pain or despair; instead, they lifted their voices in prayer and worship. “But about midnight when Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God… suddenly there was a great earthquake, so [powerful] that the very foundations of the prison were shaken; and at once all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened” (Acts 16:25-26, AMP). When they pressed into God through prayer and worship, heaven responded. This is the power of pursuing and seeking the Lord’s presence with your whole heart—chains break, walls fall, and freedom comes.

In your own life, this same invitation stands. Go deeper in your prayers. Press further in your worship. Seek harder, not because God is far away, but because He is drawing you closer. Let your heart echo the psalmist: “As the deer pants [longingly] for the water brooks, so my soul pants [longingly] for You, O God” (Psalm 42:1, AMP). Such longing is not born of duty but of love, a recognition that apart from Him, we can do nothing. Therefore, press in and seek the Lord’s presence with dedication.

Each day brings new challenges, and with them, a deeper need for His presence. Yesterday’s touch will not sustain you today. “It is because of the Lord’s lovingkindnesses that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great and beyond measure is Your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23, AMP). His faithfulness is steady, and His presence is ever-available, but He invites us to press in, to seek Him with greater urgency, for there is always more of Him to discover.

This pressing in is not about striving but about surrender. It is about letting go of distractions and setting your heart fully on Him. Prayer becomes the language of your dependence, and worship becomes the expression of your love. Together, prayer and worship create a sacred space where God moves powerfully. When we combine our petitions with praise, we are transformed. “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” (2 Corinthians 3:18, AMP). Thus, we press in and seek the Lord’s presence.

To press in is to recognize that God is not finished with you. He is constantly calling you higher, challenging you to leave behind complacency and step into the fullness of His purpose. “I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14, AMP). This upward call is not a one-time event; it is a daily journey, one that requires perseverance and passion.

Imagine the freedom and breakthrough that come when you press into Him fully. Chains fall, fears dissolve, and the glory of God fills the space where worship rises. He does not withhold Himself from those who seek Him; rather, He delights in meeting them in their pursuit.

Prayer for Deeper Hunger and Breakthrough

Lord, we come to You with open hearts, longing to go deeper into Your presence. Teach us to press in with prayer and worship, knowing that You are faithful to respond. We desire more of You, Lord—more of Your presence, more of Your power, more of Your transforming love.

Break every chain that holds us back, every distraction that keeps us from seeking You with all our hearts. Just as You met Paul and Silas in their midnight hour, meet us in ours. Shake the foundations of our lives, open the doors we cannot open, and lead us into the freedom only You can give.

Father, let us hunger and thirst for You like never before. May our prayers and worship be the evidence of our dependence on You and our love for You. Transform us, Lord, from glory to glory, making us more like Jesus every day. Let us not be satisfied with yesterday’s touch but draw us closer, moment by moment, into the fullness of Your presence. Press in and seek the Lord’s presence continually.

We surrender to You, Lord. Take us higher. Take us deeper. Fill us until our lives overflow with Your glory. We love You, we seek You, and we press in for more of You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Faith

Strengthen faith in God

Dear Reader, I write to you today of faith—a steadfast trust in the God who hears, sees, and acts on behalf of those who love Him. Faith is not just belief, but an active, unshakable confidence in God’s promises, even in the midst of the unknown. This faith, as countless saints have shown, transforms lives, moves mountains, and brings about the very answers we seek in prayer.

Faith is our shield, our protection in times of trial. The Apostle Paul reminds us, “Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16, AMP). When doubts and fears rise, hold firm to this shield. For the Lord has shown throughout history that even the smallest faith, like a mustard seed, can move mountains. As Jesus said, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move” (Matthew 17:20, AMP).

In the Old Testament, we see faith moving the hearts of kings, prophets, and the lowliest servants. Abraham, our father in faith, “believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness” (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3, AMP). When God called Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, Abraham’s faith in God’s goodness and promise enabled him to obey, believing that God could even raise Isaac from the dead if necessary (Hebrews 11:17-19, AMP). Such faith was counted as righteousness, a testimony that faith rooted in trust leads to God’s provision and promise.

Consider also David, who faced Goliath not with armor but with faith. “The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:37, AMP). David’s faith brought him victory because he knew that the battle belonged to the Lord. Faith led to answered prayers and gave David victory against impossible odds.

The prophet Daniel’s friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, displayed this unwavering faith when faced with a fiery furnace. They boldly declared, “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it… But even if He does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods” (Daniel 3:17-18, AMP). Their faith brought forth a miracle as God walked with them in the flames, sparing their lives and revealing His glory.

In Hebrews, we read of those honored for their faith—the “Hall of Faith.” “Now faith is the assurance [title deed, confirmation] of things hoped for [divinely guaranteed], and the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1, AMP). The ancient saints “conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised” (Hebrews 11:33, AMP) by faith. Their lives speak to us, reminding us that faith reaches beyond what we can see, standing firm in God’s promises.

Faith is also the victory that overcomes the world. “This is the victory that has conquered and overcome the world—our [continuing, persistent] faith [in Jesus the Son of God]” (1 John 5:4, AMP). With faith, you can approach God, trusting that He is both willing and able to answer your prayers. For “without faith, it is impossible to walk with God and please Him”(Hebrews 11:6, AMP). When you pray, believe that He hears, for Jesus promised, “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer” (Matthew 21:22, AMP). Faith is not a vague hope; it is a firm expectation that God will fulfill His promises to those who seek Him.

Let us, then, unite faith with love, for “faith working through love” (Galatians 5:6, AMP) fulfills the law of Christ. Let your faith show forth in love for God and for others, so that your actions testify to the life and power of your faith. For as James reminds us, “faith, if it does not have works [to back it up], is by itself dead” (James 2:17, AMP).

Beloved, let your faith be an assurance in your heart. Hold on to the unseen promises of God, for this is the substance of true faith. We are called to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7, AMP), resting on the truth that our God will fulfill what He has spoken. Stay rooted in the Word of God, for “faith comes from hearing [what is told], and what is heard comes by the [preaching of the] message concerning Christ” (Romans 10:17, AMP). Allow the Word to nourish you, let it strengthen and deepen your faith.

Finally, in all your trials and triumphs, hold fast to your faith as the saints of old did. Remember Abraham, Moses, David, and the prophets who believed without seeing, whose trust in God was unwavering. Remember the faithful in Hebrews, who endured through faith, “commended for their faith, yet none of them received [all] that was promised” (Hebrews 11:39, AMP). They held fast, not because they saw, but because they trusted in the One who is faithful.

Beloved, I urge you to stand strong in your faith. This faith, precious and enduring, will lead to answered prayers, to victory in trials, and to the joy of knowing you are deeply loved by the God who never fails. May your faith, rooted in His promises, carry you forward into all He has prepared. Press on in faith, for He is faithful who has promised.

Let us Pray

Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart full of faith, knowing that You are near to me as I call upon Your name. Lord, strengthen my heart today. Let Your Spirit fill me with a deep, unshakable trust in Your promises. Draw me close, closer than I have ever known, that I may feel Your presence surrounding me, lifting me up, and sustaining me.

Father, breathe life into my faith. Where I have doubt, bring me assurance; where I feel fear, replace it with courage. Let Your Word come alive within me, igniting a fire that will never burn out. Help me to walk by faith and not by sight, to lean on Your everlasting arms, and to hold fast to Your truth even when the path ahead is unclear.

Lord, I look to You as my Rock, my Shield, and my Deliverer. Teach me to trust in You fully, to place my hope in Your unfailing love, and to rest in the peace that only You can give. Let my faith be strong and unyielding, a testimony to those around me. Lead me, Lord, into a deeper intimacy with You, that I may experience the fullness of Your grace and be filled with the joy of Your presence.

Thank You, Lord, for Your goodness and faithfulness. I ask all of this in the mighty and holy name of Jesus. Amen.

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Be Still, Visions

The Call to the Father’s Embrace: A Vision of Heavenly Love

As I stood in the stillness of my room, a voice like thunder yet tender broke through the quiet: “Come up here.” My heart raced as I recognized the call of the Lord. In an instant, the room around me dissolved, and I was transported to a place beyond the natural. The air became thick with the fragrance of heaven—sweet as incense and fresh like the morning mist. I stood at the threshold of the Almighty’s throne room.

Before me, the Throne of God radiated a light brighter than the sun, but it did not blind me. Surrounding the throne were living creatures, their voices continually echoing, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come.” Their song filled the atmosphere, vibrating through every part of my being.

Overwhelmed, I fell to the ground, my face against the glassy sea beneath the throne. Every sense was alive with the presence of God. My soul responded in worship, as though created for this very moment. Words of adoration flowed from my lips, and I was completely overtaken by the majesty of the One seated on the throne.

In the midst of my worship, His voice called again, softer yet powerful: “Come up here.” Though I feared the holiness before me, His love drew me forward. My legs trembled as I rose and approached the steps leading to the throne.

As I neared, the King of Kings rose from His seat, His glory filling every corner of heaven. He extended His hand towards me, and with a tender touch, lifted my chin, causing my eyes to meet His. His gaze was both fiery and gentle, overflowing with love.

“Come up here, my son,” He spoke once more. With ease, He lifted me and placed me on His lap. The peace of God enveloped me in a way I had never experienced. I rested my head on His chest, listening to the eternal rhythm of His heartbeat.

He began to speak—not just to me but over me. “You are My child,” He declared. “I have called you by name. No weapon formed against you will prosper. You will walk in My strength, for I am with you, and I go before you.”

His words breathed life into me, filling every part of my soul. “You will rise with wings like eagles,” He continued, “run and not grow weary, walk and not faint. I have set you apart for My purpose. You are My chosen, and through you, the nations will be blessed.”

As His words enveloped me, they became a song. His voice, filled with love, sang over me. “My beloved,” He sang, “you are Mine, and I am yours. Before the foundations of the world, I knew you. Nothing can separate you from My love.”

His hands, resting gently on me, moved in rhythm with His song. “You are the apple of My eye,” He continued, “My delight and joy. When you rise, I rise with you. My love is deeper than the seas, higher than the heavens.”

The song swirled around me, lifting me higher, pulling me deeper into His love. As the melody faded, His final words lingered in my heart: “Rest, My beloved child.”

When I awoke, it was morning, and I was back in my bed. But the memory of His love song was still fresh, the warmth of His presence remaining in my soul. I rose, ready to face the day, His words still echoing: “Come up here, My beloved.”

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Faith

Arise and Shine: Embracing God’s Call to Deeper Relationship

Beloved,

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
(Isaiah 60:1, NIV)

Hear the gentle whisper of the Lord calling you into a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him. Whether you are just beginning your journey or have walked with Him for many years, His invitation remains the same: draw near and know Him more fully.

An Invitation to Know Him

God longs for you to truly know Him. Jesus prayed, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (John 17:3, NIV) He desires more than mere acknowledgment; He seeks a heartfelt connection that transforms your life.

He promises, “I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the LORD.” (Jeremiah 24:7, NIV) This is His gift to you—a deep understanding and personal relationship with the Creator of the universe.

For Those Seeking More

To those yearning for a closer walk, He assures you:

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
(Jeremiah 29:13, NIV)

Now is the time to press in:

“Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him.”
(Hosea 6:3, NIV)

Don’t settle for surface-level faith. Dive deep into His Word and let His truths saturate your soul.

Growing in Grace and Knowledge

Even if you’ve journeyed with Him for years, there’s always more to discover. The Apostle Paul expressed this longing:

“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings.”
(Philippians 3:10, NIV)

Let us heed the call to:

“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
(2 Peter 3:18, NIV)

Our relationship with God is a lifelong journey of growth and transformation.

Abiding in His Love

God’s love is the foundation of this deeper relationship. Remember:

“We love because he first loved us.”
(1 John 4:19, NIV)

And:

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.”
(1 John 4:7, NIV)

Allow His love to fill you, overflow through you, and touch those around you.

Responding to His Call

The Lord is calling you now. He stands at the door of your heart:

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”
(Revelation 3:20, NIV)

Don’t let this moment pass. Embrace His invitation.

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.”
(James 4:8, ESV)

Step into the light of His presence, and let His glory shine upon you.

Conclusion

Beloved, the Lord’s arms are open wide. Whether you’re seeking Him for the first time or desiring to deepen your walk, His promise is true:

“I will give them a heart to know me.”

Now is the time. Arise and shine, for your light has come!

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

See Also