“you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul” Deuteronomy 4:29.

Persistence and diligence are key factors in every worthwhile pursuit. No athlete, musician, or student ever achieves without persistent and diligent discipline. Similarly, spiritual depth does not come to the passive and indifferent individual. As is clarified in Deuteronomy 4:29, passionate pursuit of our Creator is key. Unless we are all in, we will be spiritually superficial.

There is never a "mission accomplished" moment in relationships. Married couples never achieve a relationship that no longer requires effort and investment, nor do parents, friends, and families. Relationships inherently require persistence and diligence, and our relationship with our Father requires no less. This side of the kingdom, spiritual perfection will not be realized.

Wise people who value relationships plan and schedule time and activities to enhance their relationships. Husbands and wives schedule date nights, and special vacations. Plans are made to devote time for conversation and connection with friends and family members we cherish. The same applies to our relationship with our Father: deliberate effort is essential for an enriching relationship.

Several years ago I scheduled a one-day retreat with my Father and His Son, my Lord Jesus. The setting was a historic rustic chapel in Indiana, not far from a famous battle scene from the 1800's. It seemed like a fitting place to do battle with the enemy by seeking to cultivate intimacy with both of my Lords.

The results of that day were nothing dramatic; it was not characterized by divine appearances or voices, but it was a satisfying investment in relationships that are of infinite value. In humbling submitting time and effort to be available for any impression I might receive from them was gratifying.

Relationships require deliberate and persistent nurture. Our Father is eagerly awaiting our passionate pursuit of Him through time in His word, prayer, and meditation. “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” Jeremiah 29:13.

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