The concept of "The Desire of God" encompasses the divine will, intentions, and purposes that God has for His creation, particularly humanity. This theme is woven throughout the Scriptures, revealing God's heart and His ultimate plans for His people and the world.

God's Desire for Relationship

From the beginning, God's desire for a relationship with humanity is evident. In Genesis, God creates man in His own image (Genesis 1:27), signifying a unique connection and purpose. The Garden of Eden represents the ideal state of fellowship between God and man, where Adam and Eve walked with God in the cool of the day (Genesis 3:8). Despite the fall, God's desire for relationship remains unchanged, as He initiates covenants with figures like Noah, Abraham, and Moses, seeking to restore and maintain a connection with His people.

Desire for Obedience and Holiness

God's desire for His people is not only relational but also moral and spiritual. He calls His people to obedience and holiness, as seen in the giving of the Law to Israel. In Deuteronomy 10:12-13 , Moses articulates this desire: "And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD that I am giving you this day for your own good?" This call to holiness is echoed throughout the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing God's desire for His people to reflect His character.

Desire for Salvation and Redemption

Central to God's desire is the salvation and redemption of humanity. The prophetic writings often highlight God's longing for His people to return to Him. In Ezekiel 18:23 , God declares, "Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Lord GOD. Wouldn't I prefer that he turn from his ways and live?" This desire culminates in the New Testament with the sending of Jesus Christ, God's Son, as the ultimate expression of His love and redemptive plan. John 3:16 encapsulates this desire: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Desire for Justice and Righteousness

God's desire also encompasses justice and righteousness on earth. The prophets frequently convey God's displeasure with injustice and His call for His people to act justly. Micah 6:8 summarizes this divine desire: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" God's desire for justice is not only a call to His people but also a promise of His ultimate judgment and restoration of righteousness.

Desire for Worship and Glory

Finally, God's desire is for His glory to be known and worshiped among all nations. The Psalms are replete with calls to worship and declarations of God's glory. Psalm 96:3 exhorts, "Declare His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all peoples." This desire is fulfilled in the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19), ensuring that God's glory is proclaimed throughout the earth.

In summary, the desire of God as revealed in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing relationship, obedience, salvation, justice, and worship. These desires reflect God's character and His ultimate purpose for creation, inviting humanity to align with His divine will.