This is what the Lord says to the house of Israel: “Seek me and live; do not seek Bethel, do not go to Gilgal, do not journey to Beersheba.”

Amos 5:4-5

When we assemble as a body of believers, we gather together for encouragement and meeting with God (1 Corinthians 14). We’re not GOING to church; we ARE the church! God warned his people in Old Testament times that simply going to the places of worship and going through the motions was worthless. As much as they valued these holy places — Bethel, Gilgal, and Beersheba — they needed to seek the Lord to find genuine life! I believe that is precisely what God would have us do. And as we seek him together, we get to share fellowship, His Word, comfort, and encouragement with each other. As we do, we discover life with Him!

What will the theme of our heart be today? We need to start each day off with a purpose to have Christ at the center of our minds. To seek Him in all that we say and do, and to be an accurate reflection of His love to all we meet, friend and enemy!

Jeremiah 29:13

“You will seek me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”

Father God, my hearts desire is to seek Your Face each day. Thank You for sending Jesus to give me eternal life through His precious blood shed for my sins. Thank You for being my Provider, Defender, and Sustainer in life. I give You all praise, honor, and glory this day, Amen!

Holy and loving Father, as I face this week’s pot holes and struggles, it is comforting to know I am never away from your loving presence. I love those times when I meet with other believers in your presence, and our worship is powerful and encouraging. While I know you are always with us when we gather together, sometimes my heart, life circumstances, and relationship issues derail my awareness of your presence. This week, dear Father, I pray for our worship assembly to be vibrant and powerful. I pray for your presence to be palpably near. I pray that you will be honored by what we do to encourage each other and praise you. Please use this day to draw us near to you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.