Tag Archives: seeking God

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:

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

Press In and Seek the Lord’s Presence

November 22, 2024 warren

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.

Embracing Humility: Less of Me, More of Him – A Journey of Seeking God First

November 5, 2024 warren

“He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30, AMP)

Beloved, consider the path before you, a path of humility—a way carved by our Savior, Jesus Christ. To walk in humility is to choose less of yourself and more of God. In a world that urges self-promotion and personal glory, the Word calls us to be different. To be humble is to empty ourselves so that God’s fullness may dwell within us. This call is not for the faint-hearted but for those willing to say, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” Humility is the essence of true discipleship, and it begins when we recognize our deep, unquenchable thirst for Him.

Let us walk this journey together, grounded in the Bible, with our eyes fixed on Jesus, the ultimate Servant Leader. He, who was rich, became poor for our sakes. He, the Son of God, knelt to wash the feet of His disciples. In His example, we find our mandate: a life poured out, parched for His presence, ever seeking Him.

The Call to Thirst for God

“As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for You, O God.” (Psalm 42:1, AMP)

To thirst for God is the very heart of humility. When we admit our parched souls, we confess our need for Him above all else. Humility begins with this acknowledgment—that we are dry without His presence, that nothing in this world can satisfy the depths of our hearts. In every moment, let us be as the deer longing for streams of water, for only in Him can we be truly refreshed.

God honors those who humbly seek Him. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” (Matthew 5:6, AMP) Beloved, let this be your anthem: to seek Him all the days of your life, to continually invite His Spirit to fill every empty part of you. This is humility, this is faith, and this is where we find the fullness of His presence.

Less of Me, More of Him

“But the one who boasts should boast in this: that he understands and knows Me [and acknowledges Me and honors Me as God].” (Jeremiah 9:24, AMP)

Humility is a commitment to say, “Less of me, more of Him.” It’s the willingness to lay down our own ambitions, trusting that God’s purposes far exceed our own. This call to humility is not for a season but a lifetime—a continuous stripping away of self so that Christ can increase in us. When we live with this surrender, we become vessels of His love and power. In every act of service, let us remember that His strength is working in us, not our own.

Servant Leadership: The Way of Christ

Jesus, our Master and Lord, taught us that true greatness lies in serving others. “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45, AMP)

Beloved, understand that the path of humility is the path of servanthood. Jesus, though He was equal with God, took the form of a servant, laying down His life for us. This is the heart of humility—servant leadership. To lead is to serve. Let us learn from Him that in every interaction and every opportunity to help, we will mirror His example. When we serve, we make room for God to work in the hearts of those around us, drawing them closer to His love.

As we follow His footsteps, may our lives be a testimony of His grace. May we be leaders who serve, care, and point others to the One who truly satisfies.

Anchored in the Word: A Life of Humility

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.” (2 Timothy 3:16, AMP)

To walk in humility, we must stay rooted in the Word of God. The Scriptures guide us, shaping our character and humbling us as we recognize our need for God. Let His Word be the foundation upon which you build your life, and it will keep you anchored in humility. Each day, immerse yourself in His truth, allowing it to transform your heart and mind. This is where true humility flourishes—in the quiet moments of reflection and in the obedience to His commands.

Pressing In: Seeking His Presence Daily

Beloved, humility is not a destination but a journey—a daily pressing in, a continuous longing for more of God and less of self. This path demands that we let go of our pride, our desires, and our control, surrendering all to Him. “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8, AMP)

In this journey, you will find Him in ways you never imagined. As you empty yourself, He fills you. As you humble yourself, He exalts you. And as you press in, you will encounter the presence of God, the One who alone satisfies.

Seeking God’s Presence with Desperation and Hunger

November 2, 2024 warren

“Oh, that I knew where I might find Him!” (Job 23:3, AMP). This cry of Job echoes through Scripture as a longing that stirs within the hearts of those who seek God. It is a desire that transcends time, a yearning for the very presence of the Almighty, the One who fills our souls.

As David proclaimed, “My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; when shall I come and see the face of God?” (Psalm 42:2, AMP). This is not a simple thirst, but a desperation, a hunger that only God Himself can satisfy. It is an ache, a longing that draws us to our knees in humility, pressing us to reach beyond the material and into the eternal. To those who earnestly seek, the promise is sure: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied” (Matthew 5:6, AMP).

The prophets spoke of days when the thirst for God would be unquenchable, not for water or bread but for hearing His word and dwelling in His presence. Amos warned of a famine, “not a famine of bread or a thirst for water, but a famine for hearing the words of the Lord” (Amos 8:11, AMP). In our pursuit of a deeper relationship with God, we confront this hunger, realizing that our souls crave not mere knowledge but communion with the Creator.

Isaiah understood this, declaring, “Yes, in the path of Your judgments, O Lord, we have waited expectantly for You; our soul’s desire is for Your name and for the remembrance of You” (Isaiah 26:8, AMP). This waiting is not passive; it is active, a pressing in, a commitment to seek the Lord with all our hearts, minds, and strength. It’s a pursuit that demands all of us—a consecration of our very lives to Him.

Scripture calls us again and again to draw near, to seek His face with undivided hearts. “I sought the Lord, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears” (Psalm 34:4, AMP). God hears and responds to those who seek Him with humility, with repentance, and with a willingness to surrender every part of their lives. “As the deer pants [longingly] for the water brooks, so my soul pants [longingly] for You, O God” (Psalm 42:1, AMP). Let us approach Him with the same passion, the same unwavering devotion.

To deepen our relationship with God requires a heart that longs to see His glory, to witness His power, and to abide in His presence. Moses cried out, “Please, show me Your glory!” (Exodus 33:18, AMP). This desire should stir within each of us—to see God, to know Him intimately, and to be transformed in His presence.

May we echo the words of the psalmist, “I stretch out my hands to You; my soul longs for You as a parched land [thirsts for water]” (Psalm 143:6, AMP). Let us stretch beyond our own understanding, beyond our comfort, and pursue the God who satisfies, who fills, and who renews. Let our lives be marked by a relentless pursuit, a commitment to press deeper, to go further, and to lay hold of the fullness of life in Him.

Holy Longing and Divine Encounter

September 3, 2024 warren

At an unexpected time, a vision appeared before me, vivid and overwhelming, as if reality itself had given way to the unseen realm. I stood in a vast assembly, surrounded by believers who had gathered with one purpose—to seek the face of God. The air was thick with anticipation, a fragrance of sweet incense rising from the altar, mingling with the aroma of fresh anointing oil that began to flow freely, golden and fragrant, a symbol of the Spirit’s unrestrained presence.

As I breathed in, the scent of oil and incense filled my lungs, and I could feel the warmth of the fire burning deep within my chest. The atmosphere was alive with the sound of many voices, lifted in worship, but not the familiar songs of routine. These were new songs, birthed in the moment, raw and unfiltered, as if each word was being drawn directly from the wells of living water within their souls (John 7:38). The melodies intertwined with the wind that began to stir—soft at first, like a whisper through the trees, then building into a mighty rushing force that caused the very walls to tremble (Acts 2:2).

The ground beneath my feet shook, and I could feel the vibrations moving up through my legs, reverberating in my bones. It was as though the earth itself was responding to the presence of the Almighty. Suddenly, the wind became a torrent, swirling around the assembly, and with it came a fire—holy and fierce, yet not consuming. It descended from above, resting upon each head like tongues of flame, and with the fire came a heat that penetrated to the very core, igniting hearts with a passion that could not be quenched (Acts 2:3).

In the midst of this encounter with the Lord, I looked and saw those who had lived their entire Christian lives in the familiarity of routine, their eyes opening wide in astonishment. They had come expecting the usual—a service they could sleep through, a sermon they could predict, a worship they could endure. But now, they were confronted with the reality of a God who could not be contained by their expectations. The air around them shimmered with the weight of glory, so thick it felt like the very breath of God was filling their lungs.

As I continued to behold the scene, I saw twenty-four elders seated on thrones, clothed in white robes, with crowns of gold upon their heads. Their faces were filled with awe and reverence as they cast their crowns before the throne, crying out, “Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they existed and were created” (Revelation 4:10–11). Their voices joined with the sound of the cherubim and seraphim, who flew back and forth with wings covering their faces, crying out with voices that shook the heavens, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come” (Revelation 4:8).

The presence of the elders added to the solemnity of the moment, their worship serving as an example to the gathered assembly. The ground continued to tremble beneath their feet, and the room filled with a thick, fragrant smoke—like the smoke of incense rising before the throne of God. It obscured my vision, yet I could feel the nearness of the Lord, so close it was as if I could reach out and touch Him. The smoke carried with it the scent of burning coals, and I saw them—glowing, fiery coals being brought forth by an angel, who touched them to the lips of the people, purifying them, setting their words on fire with the holiness of God (Isaiah 6:6–7).

The heat of the coals seared through my senses, a holy pain that was at once cleansing and empowering. I felt the fire of God settle upon my heart, burning away every impurity, every doubt, leaving only a desperate hunger for more of Him. The wind of God filled my sails, propelling me forward into the depths of His presence, where time and space no longer mattered, only the reality of the living God who was making Himself known.

And then the Lord spoke, His voice like the sound of many waters, filling the place with a reverberation that shook the very foundations. “Behold, I am coming soon. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled” (Matthew 5:6). The words were a promise, a call to awaken from the slumber of routine, to taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8).

As the vision faded, I was left with an insatiable longing—a longing for the real Jesus, the One who cannot be confined by tradition or expectation, the One whose glory fills the temple, whose fire consumes every heart, whose wind carries us into the uncharted territories of His presence. And I knew, with a certainty that could not be shaken, that I needed this God more today than I did yesterday, and I would need Him even more tomorrow. For in this holy encounter, I had tasted the goodness of the Lord, and nothing else would ever satisfy.

A Call to the Lord

Oh, Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come, I call upon Your name. We stand before You, longing to see Your face, to experience Your unrestrained presence. Shake us from the slumber of routine, break through the walls of our expectations, and let Your glory fill our lives like never before. Let Your holy fire rest upon us, purifying our hearts, and let Your wind propel us into the depths of Your love and truth. We hunger and thirst for righteousness, knowing that only You can satisfy the longing of our souls.

Father, I pray that Your Spirit would flow freely among us, that the oil of Your anointing would pour over us, and that we would not settle for anything less than the fullness of Your presence. Fill us with the unexplainable glory of Your majesty, and let the cry of the seraphim and the worship of the elders be the cry of our hearts: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty.” We need You, Lord, more today than we did yesterday, and we will need You even more tomorrow. Draw us closer to You, and let our lives be a testimony of Your unfathomable goodness.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and King, we pray. Amen.

A Call to This Generation: Return to the Lord

September 3, 2024 warren

Beloved, I write to you not as one who is distant, but as one who witnesses the light that has come into the world—the light that still shines in the darkness, which the darkness has not overcome. The Lord’s voice echoes through the ages, calling you to return to the Lord. Now is the time.

This generation has grown weary, entangled in the snares of routine and the comforts of complacency. You have known the form of godliness, yet you deny its power. Although you gather in His name, your hearts remain distant from the fire of His love. The Lord longs for you to draw near, to know Him not as a distant figure but as the living God who is close to all who call on Him in truth.

Do not be deceived by empty rituals that offer no life. The Lord desires more than outward expressions; He seeks your heart. As Scripture declares, “Return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning” (Joel 2:12). The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love. He will not turn away from the one who seeks Him with a humble heart. Therefore, return to the Lord.

Oh generation, how long will you slumber in the comfort of predictability? How long will you be satisfied with shadows when the substance of His glory is within your reach? The Lord calls you to wake up, to shake off the dust of apathy, and to rise into the fullness of His light. The day is coming, and indeed it is here, when true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such to worship Him (John 4:23).

You are the temple of the living God, and the Spirit of God dwells in you. How can you be content with anything less than His fullness? The Lord desires to fill His temple with His glory, to reveal His presence in your midst. “And the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle” (Exodus 40:34). He longs to fill your life with His unshakeable presence, to dwell among you as your God, and you as His people. Therefore, return to the Lord and experience His glory.

Let your heart be stirred. Let the coals of heaven touch your lips and purify your words. The Lord calls you to speak His truth with boldness. Let the fire of His Spirit ignite within you a passion that cannot be quenched, for He is a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29). The Lord calls you to a deeper walk, a life where His Spirit guides every step, where His presence is your constant companion.

Do not delay, for the time is short. The Lord is near, and He calls you to return to the Lord with all your heart. Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near (Isaiah 55:6). He is faithful and just to forgive you, to cleanse you from all unrighteousness, and to fill you with His Spirit.

Beloved, this is the message we have heard from Him and declare to you: God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5). If you walk in the light, as He is in the light, you will have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies you from all sin (1 John 1:7). Return to the Lord, and He will make all things new.

Let your heart be stirred by the presence of God, for the seraphim and cherubim encircle His throne, crying out day and night, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come” (Revelation 4:8). Allow the coals of heaven to touch your lips and purify your words. Let the fire of God rest upon your heart and ignite within you a passion that cannot be quenched. The Lord is calling you into His holy presence, where the angels declare His glory and where His Spirit fills you with life and light.

Let this be the cry of your heart: “Lord, I need You more today than I did yesterday. I am desperate, I am hungry, and I long for the real Jesus. Come, Lord, fill me with Your Spirit, fill me with Your fire, and let Your glory rest upon me.” Amen.

Call on Him, Seek Him, and He Will Answer You

August 6, 2024 warren

Beloved, call on Him, seek Him, and He will answer you. Our God is wonderful beyond measure, performing marvels and wonders that proclaim His glory and power. Remember how Jesus healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and raised the dead, showing His dominion over all creation (Matthew 11:5). Recall how He calmed the storm and walked on water, displaying His might and authority (Mark 4:39, Matthew 14:25). The wonders of the Lord are beyond compare, as He rose from the dead, conquering sin and death, and bringing salvation to all who believe (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Who is like our God, majestic in holiness, awesome in praises, working wonders (Revelation 15:3)? He made a covenant through His blood, performing miracles and offering eternal life to all nations (Matthew 26:28).

When we seek the Lord, we find Him ready to reveal His goodness and truth. Jesus promised, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). In every moment of need, in every season of life, God remains near to those who earnestly seek His presence. Remember how the early church sought the Lord in prayer and witnessed His mighty acts, as the Holy Spirit empowered them to preach the gospel and perform miracles (Acts 2:42-43). As we seek Him, let us draw near with confidence, knowing that He rewards those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).

Call upon the Lord, for He is gracious and merciful, abounding in steadfast love. He invites us to approach His throne of grace with boldness, assured that He hears and responds to our petitions (Hebrews 4:16). In times of trouble, He is our refuge and strength, a very present help (Psalm 46:1). Jesus said, “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son” (John 14:13). Our God is a God who answers, demonstrating His power and love through His mighty works. Let us not hesitate to call upon Him, for His ear is inclined to hear, and His hand is stretched out to save.

The Power of Calling on Him

Calling on the Lord is an act of faith and trust. Throughout the Bible, we see countless examples of God’s people calling on Him and receiving miraculous answers. Consider the story of Moses and the Israelites. When they were trapped between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army, Moses cried out to God. In response, God parted the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to escape on dry ground (Exodus 14:13-22).

In the New Testament, we see the same power at work. When Peter was imprisoned, the church fervently prayed for him. God responded by sending an angel to free Peter from his chains (Acts 12:5-11). These stories remind us that God hears our cries and responds in powerful ways.

When we call on Him, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and invite His power into our circumstances. God delights in answering the prayers of His children, demonstrating His love and faithfulness. As we call on Him, let us remember the words of Jesus: “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer” (Matthew 21:22).

The Joy of Seeking Him

Seeking the Lord is a lifelong journey. It involves a deep desire to know Him more intimately and to align our lives with His will. The Bible is filled with promises for those who seek God. “You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13). This promise assures us that our efforts to seek God will not be in vain.

The Psalms beautifully capture the heart of seeking God. David, a man after God’s own heart, often expressed his longing for God’s presence. “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God” (Psalm 42:1). This imagery conveys the deep thirst and yearning for God that should characterize our lives.

In the New Testament, Jesus encourages us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to us as well (Matthew 6:33). Seeking God involves prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else. It means spending time in prayer, studying His Word, and worshiping Him with our whole heart.

As we seek Him, we will experience His presence in profound ways. We will grow in our understanding of His character and His plans for our lives. Let us be like the early believers who devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). In seeking God, we find the joy and fulfillment that only He can provide.

A Call to Action and Prayer

Beloved, let us take action today. Call on Him, seek Him, and watch as He responds to your prayers and reveals His wonders in your life. Approach His throne of grace with boldness, knowing that He is ready to hear and answer. As the Apostle Paul encourages us, “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Make prayer a daily habit, a continual conversation with your Heavenly Father. Set aside dedicated time to seek Him through His Word and in worship. Trust in His promises, for He is faithful to fulfill them. Remember the words of Jesus: “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7).

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of praise and gratitude. We acknowledge Your greatness and Your wonders, displayed throughout history and in our lives. We seek Your face, yearning for a deeper relationship with You. Reveal to us Your will and guide us in Your truth. As we call upon You, Lord, we trust in Your promise to answer and show us great and unsearchable things. Strengthen our faith, that we may walk in confidence, knowing that You are always near. We pray this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.

Conclusion

As we call on Him and seek Him, we tap into the boundless power and love of our Heavenly Father. Let us be encouraged by the countless examples in Scripture of God’s faithfulness and responsiveness. Our God is a God who hears, who answers, and who performs wonders beyond our understanding. As we draw near to Him, let us do so with faith and expectation, knowing that He delights in revealing Himself to His children.

In every season of life, let us remain steadfast in prayer and devoted to seeking His presence. May our lives be a testimony of His grace and power, reflecting His glory to the world around us. Call on Him, seek Him, and witness the miraculous ways He will move in your life.

The Hope of Glory

July 19, 2024 warren

The presence of God in the life of the New Testament believer is a profound and constant assurance, rooted in the promises and revelations throughout the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, the scriptures consistently highlight God’s unwavering presence with His people, reinforcing the theme that God is always with us, guiding, protecting, and comforting.

Genesis: Foundations of Divine Presence

The book of Genesis sets the foundation for understanding God’s presence. In Genesis 3:8, Adam and Eve hear the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden, signifying the direct and intimate relationship between God and humanity. This theme continues with God’s promise to be with His people, such as His assurances to Isaac (Genesis 26:3) and Jacob (Genesis 28:15). These promises culminate in Joseph’s story, where God’s presence is evident in every aspect of his life, even in trials and triumphs (Genesis 39:2, 21, 23).

Exodus: God’s Presence Among His People

In Exodus, God’s presence is vividly manifested. God assures Moses of His presence with Israel, leading them out of Egypt (Exodus 3:12) and guiding them with a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night (Exodus 13:22). The tabernacle becomes the central symbol of God dwelling among His people (Exodus 29:45, 40:38), and Moses experiences God’s presence directly, which is described as a source of strength and guidance (Exodus 33:14).

The Promised Land: Assurance of Divine Presence

As the Israelites enter the Promised Land, God’s presence remains a constant reassurance. In Deuteronomy, God promises to be with His people as they face their enemies and challenges (Deuteronomy 31:6, 8). Joshua receives the same assurance, being reminded multiple times to be strong and courageous because the Lord is with him (Joshua 1:5, 9). This divine presence continues to be evident through the conquests and victories in the land (Joshua 6:27).

The Judges and Kings: God’s Guiding Presence

During the period of the judges and kings, God’s presence continues to guide and deliver His people. Gideon is reassured of God’s presence as he is called to deliver Israel (Judges 6:12, 16). David, in his Psalms, frequently acknowledges God’s presence as his source of strength and comfort (Psalm 23:4, 46:5, 139:18). Even in the establishment of the kingdom, God’s presence with David and Solomon is emphasized (2 Samuel 7:9, 1 Kings 6:13).

Prophets: Reaffirmation of God’s Presence

The prophets reaffirm God’s continual presence with His people. Isaiah declares God’s comforting presence in times of fear and distress (Isaiah 41:10, 43:2, 5). Jeremiah speaks of God’s protection and deliverance (Jeremiah 1:8, 19, 15:20). Ezekiel and Daniel highlight God’s presence even in exile and adversity (Ezekiel 37:27, Daniel 3:25).

New Testament: God With Us

The New Testament brings the ultimate fulfillment of God’s presence in the person of Jesus Christ. Matthew 1:23 declares Jesus as “Immanuel,” meaning “God with us.” Jesus promises His perpetual presence with His disciples, assuring them of His constant companionship and support (Matthew 28:20, John 16:32). The indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers underscores this divine presence, making it personal and intimate (Acts 1:8, John 14:16–17).

Epistles: Encouragement and Assurance

The apostles continue to emphasize God’s presence in the life of believers. Paul reassures the Corinthians of God dwelling among them (2 Corinthians 6:16) and encourages the Philippians to practice what they have learned, knowing God’s peace will be with them (Philippians 4:9). The writer of Hebrews echoes God’s promise never to leave or forsake His people (Hebrews 13:5), a timeless assurance of divine presence.

Revelation: Eternal Presence

In Revelation, the culmination of God’s presence is depicted. The ultimate promise is that God will dwell with His people forever in the new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:3). This eternal presence is the hope and anchor for every believer, affirming that God’s presence is not just a temporal assurance but an everlasting reality.

In closing, we are reminded of the profound truth expressed by the Apostle Paul: “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27, AMP). This verse encapsulates the mystery and majesty of God’s presence within us, filling us with hope, strength, and purpose.

As we reflect on this divine presence, let us turn our hearts to prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your presence in our lives. We are grateful that You dwell within us, guiding and sustaining us through every season. Lord, help us to be ever mindful of Your nearness, finding comfort and strength in Your unwavering companionship. May we honor Your presence in our thoughts, words, and actions, living lives that reflect Your glory. Fill us with Your Spirit, and let the hope of glory shine brightly through us, drawing others to Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

May we always cherish and honor the presence of God in our lives, knowing that He is our constant hope and eternal glory.

Awareness of God’s Presence:
- How often do I consciously acknowledge God’s presence in my daily life?
- In what ways do I feel God’s presence during both good times and challenging times?
- 1.

2. Experiencing God’s Guidance:

• Can I recall specific instances where I felt guided by God in making decisions or facing difficult situations?

• How do I seek and recognize God’s guidance in my life?

3. Living in God’s Presence:

• How does the assurance of God’s presence influence my thoughts, actions, and attitudes?

• Am I living in a way that honors and reflects God’s presence within me?

4. Communing with God:

• How often do I spend time in prayer and meditation, seeking to connect with God?

• What practices can I incorporate into my daily routine to cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s presence?

5. Reflecting God’s Glory:

• In what ways can I let Christ’s presence within me shine forth to others?

• How am I contributing to building a community that acknowledges and celebrates God’s presence?

Devotion to God

God’s Love and Grace: A Morning Reflection

July 5, 2024 warren

As we begin this new day, let’s turn our hearts and minds toward God, our Creator and Sustainer, and reflect on God’s love and grace. The psalmist declares, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands” (Psalm 19:1). Take a moment to reflect on the majesty of God’s creation around you—the sun rising, the birds singing, the beauty of nature. Each element of creation points us back to the greatness of our God and His love and grace.

In our busy lives, it’s easy to forget to pause and marvel at God’s handiwork. Yet, when we do, we are reminded of His power, presence, love, and grace. As we acknowledge His greatness, let us also remember His personal care for each of us. Jesus said, “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows” (Luke 12:6-7). This is a beautiful reminder of God’s love and grace.

God’s care for us is not only evident in His creation but also in His promises. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). As we trust in His plans, we find peace and security, knowing that He is in control and has good intentions for our lives. Trusting in God’s love and grace allows us to experience true peace.

This morning, let’s draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings. “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). As we approach Him, let’s be honest about our needs, our struggles, and our desires, confident that He hears us and is ready to respond. Experiencing God’s love and grace starts with drawing near to Him.

Questions:

How often do you take time to marvel at God’s creation and acknowledge His greatness and His love and grace?
In what areas of your life do you need to trust God’s plans and His love and grace more fully?
How can you draw near to God today and experience His love and grace in a deeper way?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come before You this morning with grateful hearts. Your love is strong, and Your grace is deep. Thank You for the beauty of Your creation, which reminds us of Your greatness, love, and grace. Help us to trust in Your plans for our lives, knowing that You have our best interests at heart. Draw us closer to You today, and let us experience Your love and grace in a profound way. Guide our steps, strengthen our faith, and fill us with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

As you go about your day, remember that God’s love and grace are with you, guiding you and sustaining you in all that you do.

Psalm 133