Definition:
Earnest seeking refers to the diligent, sincere, and wholehearted pursuit of God, His will, and His righteousness. It involves a deep commitment to understanding and following God's commands, seeking His presence, and aligning one's life with His purposes.

Biblical Basis:
The concept of earnest seeking is deeply rooted in Scripture, where believers are encouraged to pursue God with all their heart, soul, and mind. This pursuit is not passive but requires intentionality and dedication.

Key Scriptures:

1. Deuteronomy 4:29 :
"But if from there you will seek the LORD your God, you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul."

This verse emphasizes the promise that God will be found by those who seek Him earnestly. It underscores the necessity of a wholehearted approach in the pursuit of God.

2. Jeremiah 29:13 :
"You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart."

Here, God assures His people that earnest seeking leads to finding Him. The condition is a sincere and complete devotion in the search.

3. Matthew 6:33 :
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you."

Jesus instructs His followers to prioritize the pursuit of God's kingdom and righteousness above all else. This seeking is to be the primary focus of a believer's life.

4. Hebrews 11:6 :
"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him."

Faith is integral to earnest seeking, and God promises to reward those who diligently pursue Him. This verse highlights the relationship between faith and the pursuit of God.

Characteristics of Earnest Seeking:

· Wholeheartedness:
Earnest seeking involves a complete and undivided heart. It is not a half-hearted endeavor but one that engages the entire being in the pursuit of God.

· Persistence:
The pursuit of God requires perseverance. Believers are called to continue seeking, even when the journey is challenging or when immediate results are not visible.

· Faith:
Faith is foundational to earnest seeking. Believers must trust in God's existence and His faithfulness to reward those who seek Him.

· Priority:
Seeking God is to be the foremost priority in a believer's life. It involves setting aside distractions and focusing on the things of God.

Examples in Scripture:

· David:
King David is often seen as a model of earnest seeking. In Psalm 63:1 , he declares, "O God, You are my God; earnestly I seek You; my soul thirsts for You, my body longs for You, in a dry and weary land without water." David's life exemplifies a deep longing and pursuit of God.

· The Bereans:
In Acts 17:11 , the Bereans are commended for their earnest seeking of truth: "Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true." Their diligent study of Scripture is a model for believers.

Practical Application:

· Prayer and Meditation:
Earnest seeking involves regular prayer and meditation on God's Word. Believers are encouraged to spend time in God's presence, listening and responding to His voice.

· Study of Scripture:
A thorough and consistent study of the Bible is essential for understanding God's will and character. This study should be approached with a heart open to learning and transformation.

· Community and Worship:
Engaging in a community of believers and participating in corporate worship can enhance one's pursuit of God. Fellowship with others provides encouragement and accountability in the journey of faith.

· Obedience:
True earnest seeking results in obedience to God's commands. As believers seek God, they are called to align their actions with His will, demonstrating their commitment through their lifestyle.