Daily Digest: Capstone Capsule

“As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God” – Psalm 42:1

“The Pursuit of God” by Aiden Wilson Tozer, practically portrays the IMPACT of DIVINE PURSUIT: “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God” (Psa.42:1). Written by A. W. Tozer, an American pastor, author, and spiritual mentor, this Christian classic is a call to cultivate a deeper intimacy with God and a more passionate Pursuit of His Presence. It emphasizes the importance of a deep, personal relationship with God, driven by an active Pursuit of His Presence and Character. God takes the first step in our pursuit of Him, initiating a desire within us for Him, but we must respond by actively seeking Him, leading to a more profound understanding of Him, a more fulfilling spiritual life, and divine transformation.

By prevenient grace, God initiates the desire for relationship, but expects that this be met with reciprocal pursuit. A deep, persistent longing for and pursuit of God is essential for experiencing His Presence, receiving His Blessings, and accessing a transformative process that changes one's perspective, leading to greater joy, meaning, and a more integrated spirituality. There is a need for a genuine, personal encounter with God, not just intellectual knowledge or religious practices. Also encouraged is simplicity and focus: a stripping away of distractions and a focus on God alone: God is sufficient as our Treasure!

Psalm 42, though a lament psalm, illustrates the deep longing and thirst for God that should characterize the believer's heart. The imagery of the deer panting for water (v.1) typifies the intensity of desire. Though feeling isolated, discouraged, in despair, and questioning why God seemed distant, he ultimately expressed trust in God, hope for deliverance, and praise. In essence, the psalm reflects the experience of actively pursuing God, even with feelings of discouragement. Faith and Hope can be sustained in His Presence, even when it feels difficult to connect with Him. Other key scriptures on the Pursuit of God are:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt.6:33). This is about prioritizing God’s Kingdom and righteousness in life.

"So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you" (Lk.11: 9-10).  We’re encouraged to engage in persistent seeking and prayer in the pursuit of God's will. 

"But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness" (1Tim.6:11). This highlights the need to actively pursue positive spiritual qualities, akin to pursuing God.

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (Jam.4:8). This underscores the reciprocal nature of the relationship with God, emphasizing that our pursuit of Him leads to His closer presence. Intimacy is the Secret of God-glorifying Impact!