Chapter 6: Boundaries for Seeking God 32

Boundaries for SEEKING GOD

I want to dedicate this chapter to explaining the four boundaries for seeking God that I introduced in Chapter 2. These boundaries are: obedience, acceptance of His Word, reverence, and belief. If we stay within these boundaries, we will find success in our pursuit of Him.

OBEDIENCE

Have you done what God has instructed you to do? Are you walking in holiness so that you may stand in His presence and have an audience with Him?

When approaching God, it is crucial to ensure that you are already walking in obedience—or at the very least, approaching Him with a repentant heart. According to 1 John 1:5-6, God does not fellowship with darkness. Therefore, if we seek His face, we must be free from all forms of darkness.

When we come before God’s throne, the first thing He will address is our own lives—especially if we are out of alignment with His will. This is a demonstration of His faithfulness. When you begin to pray, pay attention to the things that come to mind. Sometimes, a situation or a person may suddenly enter your thoughts. This is not necessarily a distraction—it may be the Lord prompting you to make amends, correct an attitude, or address an unresolved issue. Perhaps you mishandled a situation, and God is urging you to reconcile. Or maybe you have buried unforgiveness in your heart, and He is bringing it to the surface so that you can be free.

These moments are invitations to examine your heart. Instead of dismissing them as distractions, take the time to ensure your heart is pure toward all men and that you are spot-free from all sin. If you do not have the Holy Spirit, you too must obey God according to the standard He places on sinners. To be filled with the Holy Spirit, you must obey God by believing the report of the Gospel (John 3:16) and desiring Him above all else—more than anything or anyone in your life (Luke 14:26).

ACCEPTANCE OF GOD’S WORD

Do you see yourself the way God sees you? Do you agree with what His Word says about who you are, who He is, and what He is able to do and already does?

This boundary is crucial when seeking God. We must accept as absolute truth what the Word of God declares about us.

For the sons of God, the Word of God affirms:

• You are a divine being, who has already overcome sin by the power of the Holy Ghost within.
• You are His sheep, and you naturally hear His voice and are led by His Spirit.
• If you walk in holiness, God hears your prayers, despite how you feel.
• The fervent prayers of the righteous avail much.
• The will of God will be accomplished, no matter how much we may want an alternate outcome.
• If you are sinning, God will not obligate Himself to your prayers. For those without the Holy Ghost, the Word of God declares:
• God loves you as much as anyone else and desires to save you more than you desire to be saved.
• Without the Holy Spirit, you are wretched and in bondage to sin, a captive of the enemy.
• You can change. When you receive the Holy Spirit, you will be free indeed, no longer a slave to sin.
• God will save you the moment your heart fully believes and you are willing to choose Him above all else.
• Salvation is not about how well you clean yourself up—as you submit to His Word, He will draw you to Himself.
• It’s not about fitting in with other Christians—it’s about believing God and wanting Him completely.

If these truths are embraced, they ensure that you approach God from the correct posture—truth. However, if these are not accepted, it means that you doubt the Word of God and, in your heart, have made Him a liar. As a result of this, you will find that God will not be as responsive as you would like Him to be.

Hebrews 11:6

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

James 1:6

But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

REVERENCE

Do I recognize that God is sovereign? Do I truly understand that He is the Creator, and we are His creation? He is our Father, and we are His children. This means that our petitions to Him are requests—not demands. Reverence acknowledges His authority and submits to His perfect will.

We have already written two chapters on reverencing God, but it is worth reiterating: When approaching God, be mindful that He is sovereign.

If you find yourself disobedient to His voice or frustrated because things are not going your way, it is evidence that your reverence for God has diminished. Keep God in His rightful place, acknowledging that He is worthy of humility and that His will is always good and perfect.

Be careful of questioning God in frustration. While He invites us to reason with Him (Isaiah 1:18), ensure that your questions come from a place of humility and reverence, not arrogance or impatience. Remember, He is God, and His wisdom far surpasses our own.

BELIEF

Do I genuinely expect God to hear me? Do I believe that He rewards those who diligently seek Him?

Praying and making petitions known to God is good, but believing that He hears and responds is even better. Prayer without faith is powerless.

There are times when one prayer is enough—God answers immediately. However, there are times when He requires persistence over months or even years (Luke 18:1-7). As you pray, examine your emotions. Often, they expose unbelief:

Frustration

Frustration arises when we fail to see circumstances from God’s perspective. Impatience in prayer is often a sign of unbelief—God never delays without purpose.

Anxiety

Anxiety stems from fear and uncertainty. But the root of anxiety is unbelief—a lack of trust that God is in control. Replace fear with faith and worry with patience.

Doubt

Doubt is uncertainty about what God will do. However, Scripture constantly reminds us not to doubt. If your request aligns with His will, believe that He will fulfill it in His time.

Depression

Spiritual depression can stem from losing faith that God will act. However, this is often a spiritual tantrum—a refusal to accept God’s will over our own. Submit to Him, and trust that His will is supreme.

THE REWARD OF SEEKING GOD WITHIN THESE BOUNDARIES

If you seek the Lord within these four boundaries, your seeking will be successful. He will hear your prayers and be responsive. He will reveal His will and answer you—whether with yes, no, or wait.

Our Father loves us and longs for our fellowship.

Will you answer His call?