SEEK: God Comes Where He’s Wanted
SEEK: God Comes Where He’s Wanted
Speaker: Pastor Jon Tyson
Date: January 6, 2025
On our second night of SEEK, Jon Tyson calls us to examine our hearts. Are we building a Church that hungers for the Lord's presence, or are we falling victim to a culture that rejects Him? Just like the city of Nazareth, we live in a culture that aims to diminish God's presence. If we want to stoke revival, it's not through methodology or works but by bringing our hearts to the altar with praise; God comes where He is wanted. This is how we contend for His heart.
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: Hungering for God's Presence
Reading: Psalm 42:1-2, Matthew 5:6
Devotional: Just as the deer pants for streams of water, our souls should long for God. In a world that often rejects or ignores God, we are called to cultivate a deep hunger for His presence. Reflect on areas of your life where you may have become complacent or overly familiar with God. Ask the Holy Spirit to renew your wonder and awe of who He is. Consider practical ways you can create space in your daily life to sit at Jesus' feet, like Mary of Bethany, drinking in His words and presence. How can you foster an atmosphere of hunger for God in your home, workplace, or community?
Day 2: Embracing God in Suffering
Reading: Romans 8:18-25, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Devotional: Suffering is an inevitable part of life, but it doesn't have to lead us away from God. Like Mary and Martha in Bethany, we can bring our pain and questions to Jesus, trusting in His compassion and power. Rather than accusing God in times of hardship, how can you invite Him into your struggles? Reflect on past difficulties where you've seen God's faithfulness. Allow these memories to strengthen your faith for present challenges. Consider how your own experiences of God's comfort can equip you to support others who are suffering.
Day 3: The Power of Extravagant Worship
Reading: John 12:1-8, Romans 12:1-2
Devotional: Mary's act of pouring expensive perfume on Jesus' feet was an expression of extravagant worship. In a culture that often prioritizes efficiency and practicality, how can we cultivate a spirit of lavish devotion to Christ? Reflect on what your "alabaster jar" might be - perhaps your time, talents, or resources. What would it look like to break it open in surrender to Jesus? Ask God to reveal any areas of your life you've been holding back from Him. Consider a specific act of worship or service you can offer this week that goes beyond your usual routine.
Day 4: Contending for Revival
Reading: 2 Chronicles 7:14, Acts 2:1-4, 42-47
Devotional: Throughout history, God has responded to the hunger and prayers of His people with powerful moves of His Spirit. Like the early disciples in the upper room, we are called to persistently seek God for revival. Spend time praying for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit in your life, church, and community. Ask God to give you a burden for those who don't know Him. How can you be part of creating a "Bethany culture" in the midst of a "Nazareth world"? Consider joining or starting a prayer group focused on revival and spiritual awakening.
Day 5: Living with Eternal Perspective
Reading: Colossians 3:1-4, 2 Corinthians 5:1-10
Devotional: In light of eternity, our priorities and pursuits on earth take on new meaning. How does the reality of Christ's return and the promise of eternal life with Him shape your daily choices? Reflect on areas where you may have become too focused on temporary things. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see your life, relationships, and circumstances from God's perspective. Consider one specific change you can make to align your life more closely with eternal values. How can you live today in a way that demonstrates your longing for God's kingdom to come in fullness?