Pursue God with a willing, seeking heart

Never give up the chase.

We live a life in which we are to be in pursuit of God, and yet so often we can find ourselves in greater pursuit of these simple earthly dreams: raising a family, building a business, even walking into a path of ministry. These things are good things, but they are just one step away from leading us away from a beautiful goal that is deep relationship with Christ.

And so I ask you, as I ask myself these questions: "When did I last fall on my knees before Him, unprompted? When did I last cry out to Him in need, knowing His deep affection for me? When did I last set aside time specifically for Him, simply because I wanted to be with Him?"

Not enough, I can at least say of myself, and yet, we live our life in a beautiful pursuit. His word says this: "Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world." (James 4:8 NLT)

Oh Lord, let this not be so, let my loyalty be pinpointed upon you! For we can accomplish so much here on earth, we can build great things, we can do mighty works in the name of Jesus, and yet so many do not truly know Him.

My word today is this simple thing: if you know Him, if you don't, if you might, and if you're just not sure, take a moment, and allow your spirit to seek Him, as a husband desires to spend time with his wife, as a father with his children, take the time today.

We serve an incredible relational God, who responds to a willing, seeking heart. Go as long as it takes, as many times as you must, the Lord almighty wants to encounter you today, just where you are, just as you are.

There are times when it may feel unnatural, some days it comes easy, and some days it takes careful, deliberate effort to meet with Him, but He will respond to your heart when you truly seek His face. And so my dear brothers and sisters, I petition you with this: Leave it all behind, that He may be all that is ahead.

Justin Gardner pastors at River of Life Fellowship, 702 Church St., Sandpoint. The church can be reached at 208-255-7111.