1 Chronicles 16:11

Seek out the LORD and His strength; seek His face always.

Study Bible

Seek out the LORD
The Hebrew word for "seek" is "דָּרַשׁ" (darash), which implies a diligent pursuit or inquiry. In the context of ancient Israel, seeking the LORD was not merely a passive act but an active, intentional pursuit of God's presence and will. This phrase calls believers to prioritize their relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of turning to Him in all circumstances. Historically, this was a call to the Israelites to remain faithful to Yahweh amidst a world filled with idolatry and distractions. For the modern believer, it serves as a reminder to continually pursue a deeper understanding and connection with God through prayer, study, and worship.

and His strength
The term "strength" in Hebrew is "עֹז" (oz), which can refer to might, power, or refuge. This phrase encourages believers to rely not on their own abilities but on the divine strength that God provides. In the historical context of Israel, God's strength was often demonstrated through miraculous deliverances and victories in battle. Spiritually, it signifies the empowerment that comes from God to overcome life's challenges and to live a life that honors Him. It is a call to depend on God's power rather than human effort.

seek His face
The phrase "seek His face" is a metaphorical expression that signifies seeking God's presence and favor. In Hebrew, "face" (פָּנִים, panim) often represents one's presence or attention. To seek God's face is to desire an intimate relationship with Him, to live in a way that is pleasing to Him, and to experience His guidance and blessing. In the ancient Near Eastern context, seeking the face of a king meant seeking an audience or favor, and similarly, seeking God's face implies a desire for His attention and approval.

always
The Hebrew word for "always" is "תָּמִיד" (tamid), which means continually or perpetually. This word underscores the necessity of consistency and perseverance in one's spiritual journey. It is not enough to seek God sporadically or only in times of need; rather, believers are called to maintain a constant and ongoing relationship with Him. This reflects the biblical principle of abiding in God, as seen in other scriptures, and highlights the importance of a steadfast faith that endures through all seasons of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The king of Israel who organized the return of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and established worship practices, including the psalm of thanks where this verse is found.

2. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel. Its return to Jerusalem was a significant event in Israel's history.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the Ark was brought, symbolizing the central place of worship and the heart of Israel's spiritual life.

4. Asaph and his brothers
Levites appointed by David to minister before the Ark, leading worship and thanksgiving to God.

5. The Israelites
The people of God who were called to worship and seek the Lord, as instructed by David in this psalm of thanks.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Seeking God
Seeking the Lord is not a one-time event but a continual pursuit. It involves a deliberate effort to draw near to God through prayer, worship, and obedience.

Relying on God's Strength
Recognize that human strength is insufficient for life's challenges. We are called to depend on God's strength, which is made perfect in our weakness.

Seeking God's Face
This phrase implies a desire for a personal relationship with God, beyond just seeking His blessings. It involves intimacy and a longing to know Him more deeply.

Consistency in Our Spiritual Walk
The word "always" suggests that seeking God should be a constant part of our lives, not just during times of need or crisis.

The Role of Worship in Seeking God
Worship, as demonstrated by David and the Levites, is a vital component of seeking God. It aligns our hearts with His and opens us to His presence and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to "seek the LORD and His strength" in your daily life, and how can you practically implement this in your routine?

2. How does the concept of seeking God's face differ from seeking His hand (blessings), and why is this distinction important?

3. Reflect on a time when you relied on your own strength instead of God's. What was the outcome, and how might seeking God's strength have changed the situation?

4. How can worship and thanksgiving, as demonstrated by David and the Levites, enhance your pursuit of God's presence?

5. In what ways can you ensure that seeking God becomes a consistent and integral part of your life, rather than something you turn to only in times of trouble?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 105:4
This verse echoes the call to seek the Lord and His strength, emphasizing a continual pursuit of God's presence.

Deuteronomy 4:29
Highlights the promise that if Israel seeks the Lord with all their heart and soul, they will find Him, reinforcing the importance of earnest seeking.

Matthew 6:33
Jesus instructs to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, aligning with the call to prioritize seeking God in our lives.