How Intention, Surrender, and Faith Draw Us Closer to the Divine
Introduction: The Call to Pursue God with Intention and Passion
Have you ever felt a longing deep inside—a pull towards something greater, something holy? That’s not just your imagination. It’s the call of God inviting us to draw closer, to pursue Him with intention and passion. But why does this pursuit matter? Because our relationship with God isn’t just about believing; it’s about seeking, growing, and walking with Him every day. Let’s explore how we can follow hard after God, overcoming the barriers that keep us from deeper connection.
God’s Initiative and Our Response: Embracing the Divine Invitation
The amazing truth is, our desire to seek God starts with Him. God is the one who gives us the impulse to search for Him. He reaches out first, stirring our hearts to hunger for more. But this isn’t just a one-way street—we have a role to play. Think of it like receiving an invitation: God sets the table, but we choose whether to show up and engage.
Practical Step: Pay attention to moments when you feel drawn to pray, worship, or simply sit in silence. These nudges are God’s way of drawing you closer. Respond by saying “yes”—even if it’s just a few minutes a day.
Letting Go: The Blessedness of Possessing Nothing
In our spiritual journey, one big challenge is our attachment to things. These include possessions, status, and even our own ideas and plans. We often hold on tightly, believing these things will bring us security or happiness. Yet, real freedom comes when we learn to let go and trust God with everything.
Practical Step: Take stock of what you cling to most. Is it a possession, a habit, or a worry? Try giving it to God in prayer—literally say, “God, I surrender this to You.” Notice the peace that comes with letting go.
Removing the Veil: Overcoming Self
If we’re honest, much of what stands between us and God is ourselves. Our pride, our fears, and our need to be in control are obstacles. This “veil” keeps us from seeing God clearly. When we surrender our self-will and let God lead, that barrier lifts, and our relationship with Him grows deeper.
Practical Step: Each day, practice humility and ask God to show you where self is getting in the way. Journaling your thoughts or praying, “God, help me see beyond myself,” can be a simple but powerful way to start.
Developing Spiritual Senses: Awakening by Faith
Just as our physical senses let us experience the world, our spiritual senses help us experience God. Faith is like a pair of glasses—it lets us see what we otherwise miss. As we grow in faith, we become more aware of God’s presence, His guidance, and His love.
Practical Step: Read a verse from the Bible and ask God to help you “see” what He’s saying to you. Spend a few moments in quiet listening. Trust that God is near, even if you don’t feel it right away.
Becoming Receptive to God’s Ever-Present Nature
Sometimes, it’s easy to think God is far away, only showing up in special moments. But the truth is, God is always present—right here, right now. The challenge is opening our hearts to notice Him. We don’t have to chase after God; we simply need to be open and receptive to His presence.
Practical Step: Throughout your day, pause and whisper, “Thank You for being here, God.” Practice noticing Him in everyday moments—in nature, in conversations, in quietness. The more you do this, the more real His presence becomes.
Conclusion: Pursue God Wholeheartedly
The journey of following hard after God isn’t always easy, but it is deeply rewarding. Remember, God initiates the pursuit, but we must respond with intention. We let go of what holds us back. We surrender our self. We develop our spiritual senses. By becoming receptive to His ever-present nature, we step into a deeper communion with God.
· Respond to God’s invitation daily.
· Surrender what you’re holding onto.
· Ask God to help you overcome self.
· Practice faith and spiritual awareness.
· Cultivate openness to God’s presence.
As you continue this journey, know that God is walking with you every step of the way. Pursue Him wholeheartedly, and you’ll discover the joy and peace of a relationship deeper than you’ve ever imagined.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025