Today is my daughter’s 17th birthday. Back when she was just 1 year old, the two of us took a trip to Columbia in our truck. On the way home, she was getting tired and fussy, and she kept asking for something. I thought she wanted either her sippy cup of milk or the garage door opener. But every time I tried to give one to her, she just got mad. This went on for several minutes before I finally realized what she wanted. She didn’t want me to hand her something — she wanted my hand! I held it out for her, she grabbed ahold, and before long, she had drifted off to sleep. Her little hand in mine felt so sweet, and I felt honored that she wanted me.
Later on, I thought about how most of the time when I come to God, I’m wanting something from Him. I’m wanting healing or wisdom or forgiveness or some other gift. I come to Him for these blessings because He has invited me to do so, and I do not think He resents my asking at all. Still, coming to God for blessings is not the same as coming to God for Him. I should spend time in prayer and Bible study just asking God to draw me closer to Him, to show me more of who He is and to help me appreciate Him. I think I can honor God by making Him — and not what He can give me — my greatest desire. I also have a feeling that like my daughter who found rest when she took my hand, I’ll find greater peace and rest the closer I draw to God.
“May all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, ‘The Lord be exalted!'” Psalm 40:16
Your Turn: How do you seek God for Himself and not for His blessings?