“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)

I was reminded of this idea from the Dutch Sheets devotion, GiveHim15 in which he spoke of our hunger for God. When we pray, when we go to God or turn toward Him or call out to Him, what is our motive? Are we just looking to see what’s in His hand or are we looking into His face and glad to be in His presence? There are two things our seeking implies; urgency or awe. We urgently need something from God or we just want to be in His presence. Many times we’re asking God for the things we need. He already knows that. And He may have a different idea about what we think we need. He wants to be with us. Now, there are times when we pray urgently for an immediate need and we cry out, “GOD, HELP!” He knows about those times too. I’m often guilty of going to God in prayer and asking first. Then I’m convicted and repent and say, “I’m sorry God, I love You and want to thank You for all you’ve done for me. I praise You and bow before You.” Then, I can see Him saying, “I love you too, come up here and let me hug you.” What a difference! Seek His face.

Think of this scene: A father comes home from a long trip and is met at the front door by his child. Does the child run and jump up into daddy’s arms because they’re so glad to see him. Or does the child immediately ask, “What did you bring me?” And what would you think of a friend who you only hear from when they need something?

I can see myself in the song, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.” I’m sitting at Jesus’ feet with my needs. The lyrics say, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.” Wow, can you see it? When we look up into His face, our needs are “strangely dim”. And…His smile! We are in His presence!  And, when we seek first His face, we get His hand also. Think about this the next time you pray.