Seeking good is a central theme in the Bible, emphasizing the pursuit of righteousness, justice, and moral integrity. This concept is deeply rooted in the character of God and His expectations for His people. The Bible encourages believers to actively pursue what is good, aligning their lives with God's will and reflecting His nature in their actions.

Old Testament Foundations

The call to seek good is evident in the Old Testament, where the prophets and wisdom literature frequently exhort the people of Israel to pursue righteousness. In Amos 5:14-15, the prophet Amos urges, "Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the LORD God of Hosts will be with you, as you have claimed. Hate evil and love good; establish justice in the gate." This passage highlights the connection between seeking good and experiencing God's presence and favor.

The Psalms also reflect this theme, as seen in Psalm 34:14: "Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." Here, the psalmist emphasizes the active nature of seeking good, which involves turning away from evil and striving for peace.

Wisdom Literature

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, particularly the Book of Proverbs, frequently contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked. Proverbs 11:27 states, "He who diligently seeks good finds favor, but evil comes to him who searches for it." This proverb underscores the principle that seeking good leads to divine favor, while pursuing evil results in negative consequences.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, the call to seek good is reiterated and expanded upon by Jesus and the apostles. Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, teaches the importance of righteousness and the pursuit of God's kingdom. Matthew 6:33 instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This verse emphasizes prioritizing God's kingdom and righteousness above all else.

The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently encourages believers to pursue what is good. In Romans 12:9, he writes, "Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good." Paul further instructs in 1 Thessalonians 5:15, "Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people."

Practical Application

Seeking good involves both personal and communal dimensions. Individually, believers are called to cultivate virtues such as love, kindness, and integrity. Communally, the church is to be a beacon of justice and righteousness, advocating for the oppressed and marginalized.

The pursuit of good is not merely a passive desire but an active endeavor. It requires discernment, prayer, and a commitment to living according to God's Word. Believers are encouraged to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who empowers them to live out the good they are called to pursue.

Conclusion

The biblical mandate to seek good is a call to align one's life with the character and purposes of God. It is a pursuit that promises divine favor and the presence of God, as believers reflect His goodness in a world in need of His light and truth.