“The Pursuit of God”

Tuesday, July 10, 2018

“One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek:  that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple.” (Psalms 27:4)
 

Here the Psalmist suggests a focus and a single mind.  “One thing” implies the steadfast eye and a single purpose.  This resolve influences everything else.  It suggests that there is no other pursuit that will compare with this one thing!   This goal is loftier than the pursuit of gold and silver!  (Matthew 6:19,20)

Next, this great prize will not be found without effort.  It must be sought!  The Psalmist states that he is willing to make the sacrifice to find it.  God commands, “seek my face” (vs.8)!  The Psalmist answers, “Your face Lord I will seek”. (vs.8) Furthermore, the poet implores, “Teach me, your way, Oh Lord”. (vs.11)  The writer is willing to make a diligent effort to find his prize.
  

Next, the Psalmist’s seeks 1) to “dwell in the house of the Lord”, 2)  “to behold his beauty”, and 3) “to inquire in his temple”.  (vs. 4)  Here he expresses his desire:  1) to worship God, 2) to appreciate God’s awesomeness and graciousness, and 3) to know God’s will.  These three may also be summarized as “fellowship” with God.  This sweet communion with God is the Psalmist’s single pursuit.   As a favorite hymn states “I want you more than gold or silver, only you can satisfy, you alone are the real joy giver and the apple of my eye.”

Finally, he has assurance that his pursuit will result in God’s protection in troubling times, “for he shall hide me in his pavilion; in the secret place of his tabernacle.” (vs.5)  “When my father and mother forsake me, then the Lord will take care of me.” (vs. 10) When his world falls apart he knows that God will be his helper. 
Therefore, he exhorts us to “Wait on the Lord, be of good courage, and he will strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord.”  (vs. 14)
 

By George Slover

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