Introduction:
Embarking on a series centered around the art of prayer, we delve into a three-part exploration of its essence. In the previous week, we delved into the act of asking, and this week, our focus shifts to the concept of seeking. The final installment, led by Jen, will center around the act of knocking. If you missed last week, let me give you a quick recap. We began with the notion of disciples asking Jesus to teach them how to pray. This week, our journey into seeking will uncover valuable insights about aligning ourselves with God’s will and His purpose for our lives.

A Lesson from Discipleship:
As disciples approached Jesus, their curiosity about effective prayer led them to utter the phrase, “Teach us how to pray.” This single request captured their desire to learn from Jesus’ approach to prayer, to witness the connection he had with God. This moment underscores the significance of seeking, not just in the process of asking, but in the willingness to gain understanding and insight from a higher source. This is where our journey into seeking truly begins.

Cultivating Stillness:
Seeking God’s presence often requires us to cultivate stillness in our hearts and minds. Just as a calm sea allows us to see our reflection clearly, the stillness within us opens us up to connect with God’s wisdom and guidance. Being still is an invitation to pause, to listen, and to be receptive to God’s voice. In a world of constant noise and distractions, this practice demands a higher level of faith, as it’s often harder to be still than to be busy.

Engage and Inquire:
Engaging with God and inquiring of His will form crucial elements of seeking. Instead of approaching prayer solely as a request, we’re encouraged to engage in a two-way conversation with God. This conversation involves not just speaking, but also listening, asking questions, and seeking His guidance. Just as we engage in meaningful conversations with friends or mentors, we’re invited to do the same with our Heavenly Father, knowing that He responds to those who earnestly seek Him.

Expectation Through Faith:
Expectation is a cornerstone of seeking. When we approach God with a heart full of faith and expectation, our prayers take on a different dimension. We’re not just uttering words; we’re expressing our trust in His promises. The Bible assures us that God delights in providing for His children, just as a loving parent does. As we pray in alignment with God’s will, we can expect His responses that align with His plans for our lives.

Knowing His Word:
Knowing and anchoring our prayers in God’s Word adds depth and authority to our conversations with Him. Scripture is a roadmap that guides us in understanding His heart, His character, and His desires for us. When we pray in alignment with His Word, our prayers carry authority, as we’re standing on the foundation of truth. This knowledge empowers our prayers and strengthens our connection with Him.

Conclusion:
In a world that constantly tugs at our attention, seeking God’s presence requires intentionality, discipline, and faith. Through stillness, engagement, and expectation rooted in His Word, we can embark on a journey of seeking that aligns us with His purpose. Just as Uzziah’s initial success was rooted in seeking God’s guidance, our lives too can flourish when we acknowledge Him in all our ways. So let us be reminded to seek God’s presence with a heart full of expectation, knowing that He is a faithful and loving Father who guides us along our path.