Panting For God

As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God? Psalm 42:1-3

Each day the longing to know more of God, to live righteously before him, and ultimately to see Him grows with ever more intensity. Our hearts thirst for the knowledge of God but even much more. A relationship with God that wakes us up in the early morning hours; those times when we are broken before him; a mutual love and trust.

For so often we are in a time of decision. The world pulls at us. Our fallen nature tugs at us and we are tempted. On one hand we are disgusted with the continual decay seen in the world, yet we are also tempted with its glittering lights and delicate treats. These are the times and the days of decision.

For we cannot live for the temporary pleasures of this world and live for God. The gulf between the two is ever widening. The world is growing ever more ugly while the holiness of God is ever brighter, ever more beautiful.

The decision is an independent one, a heart decision. The questions arise… are we willing to suffer, to live as outcasts in a world that is growing in hatred for God and His people? Are we willing to suffer abuse because of the name of God?

Or do we desire something lesser…. Something more base, that appeals to the lusts of our flesh and mind?

May our hearts and mind ever turn to the love of God. May our hearts discern these trying times and find in them the gentle peace that comes before a gentle and loving maker.

‘Father, we live in evil days, help us, teach us to live in your ways.’