David says in Psalm 27:4, “One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall 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 meditate in His temple.”  David is prioritizes being in God’s presence above all else, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from experiencing His beauty and majesty. This verse also highlights the importance of seeking God consistently to find peace and wisdom in our lives.

You may be wondering why each of us should “Pursue His Presence”. First, for real and authentic joy and contentment. Psalm 16:11 emphasizes that true joy and fulfillment comes from being in God’s presence. While the world offers temporary pleasures, only God’s presence provides lasting joy and contentment. (“You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.”  Psalm 16:11)

Then, we “Pursue His Presence” to gain wisdom and for guidance. Proverbs chapter 3 lets us know that pursuing God’s presence involves trusting Him for guidance. When we seek Him first, He promises to direct our paths. God’s guidance helps us make wise decisions rather than us relying solely on our own strength and limited understanding.  (“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”  Proverbs 3:5-6)

When we seek the presence of God, we find both strength and comfort. Addressing the people of Israel, Isaiah says this in chapter 41 verse 10, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you; surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”   A New Testament scripture that complements Isaiah 41:10 is found in Philippians 4:6 and 7. As believers we are encouraged to turn to God in times of anxiety, promising His peace and presence in our lives. I love how both of these scriptures emphasize reliance on God which can only be found when we go to His presence. (“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7)

I don’t know about you, but I need to go to His presence in order to be transformed and to be made holy. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 reminds us of the transformative process that occurs when we behold God’s glory in His presence. It emphasizes the ongoing transformation into Christ’s likeness through the work of the Holy Spirit. (“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. But we all, with unveiled face, looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:17-18)

Ultimately, pursuing God’s presence offers us transformation, guidance, and spiritual growth, drawing us closer to His holiness and purpose for our lives—qualities that other worldly pursuits just cannot provide.