Understanding the Deep Longing in Every Human Heart
Have you ever felt like something was missing in your life, even when everything seemed fine on the outside? Maybe you’ve chased after achievements, relationships, or possessions, hoping they would bring you lasting satisfaction, only to still feel unsettled inside. If you’ve been there, you’re not alone—this restless longing is something every person experiences.
The Universal Yearning for Something More
At the core of our being, there’s a deep desire for connection with our Creator. The Bible tells us in Hebrews 1:1-3 that God has spoken to humanity in many ways throughout history, but now He has spoken to us through His Son, Jesus, who perfectly reveals God’s glory and character. Through Jesus, God made everything and holds the universe together. He also made a way for us to be forgiven and welcomed into God’s presence.
Why Do We Feel Restless?
This deep longing for God is woven into us because we’re created in His image. It’s like an inner thirst that nothing in this world seems to quench. As the early church leader St. Augustine once said, “You have created us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” People from every culture and generation feel this restlessness—always searching, but never quite finding what truly satisfies.
Searching in the Wrong Places
Many of us try to fill this inner emptiness with all sorts of things—careers, relationships, experiences, or even just staying busy. We hope these things will make us feel complete. But time and again, we discover they just don’t satisfy that deep-down longing. The real answer isn’t in what we do or achieve; it’s in coming into God’s presence and knowing Him personally.
The True Solution: Experiencing God’s Presence
According to the Bible, the greatest thing we can experience is to truly know and enjoy God—resting in His presence, moment by moment. Revelation 4:11 says God created everything for His pleasure, including us. Our ultimate purpose is to bring Him joy by enjoying a relationship with Him. No amount of success, knowledge, or even religious activity can take the place of actually experiencing God’s loving presence.
More Than Just Knowledge
It’s possible to know a lot about God without really knowing Him. Many people have head knowledge but have never felt the peace, joy, and fulfillment that comes from being close to God. For some, moments when they sense God’s presence are rare, and they wonder if there’s more to faith than what they’ve experienced. The good news is that God invites us all to come close and experience His love—not just once in a while, but as a daily reality.
Finding Rest for Your Soul
So, what does it mean to strive toward God’s presence? It means recognizing our deep need for Him and admitting that nothing else will truly satisfy. It’s about looking beyond the surface and reaching out to God, who promises to draw near to those who seek Him. When we do, we discover a peace and joy that can’t be found anywhere else—a sense of home for our restless souls.
If you’re feeling that longing today, know that you’re not alone. God created you to know Him, and He welcomes you into His presence. Take some quiet moments to turn your heart toward Him, and you may find the very thing you’ve been searching for all along.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 