In the Bible, “pursuit” often refers to the act of seeking or chasing after something, which can be both positive and negative. It frequently implies the earnest striving for righteousness, wisdom, or God’s presence (e.g., Psalm 34:14) but can also represent a relentless chase of one’s desires or enemies (e.g., 1 Samuel 30:8).
Scripture
14 When Abram heard that his kinsman had been taken captive, he led forth his trained men, born in his house, 318 of them, and went in pursuit as far as Dan.
15 And he divided his forces against them by night, he and his servants, and defeated them and pursued them to Hobah, north of Damascus.
16 Then he brought back all the possessions, and also brought back his kinsman Lot with his possessions, and the women and the people.
Pursuit in the Bible Meaning
The concept of “pursuit” in the Bible is rich and multifaceted, encapsulating both the longing for God and the dangers of misdirected desires. On a positive note, believers are encouraged to pursue righteousness, love, and peace. For example, Proverbs 21:21 states, “Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.” This pursuit is a call to actively seek a life that reflects God’s character and intentions, suggesting that such striving will lead to fulfillment and divine blessings. Similarly, in Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Here, the pursuit of God’s kingdom and His ways takes precedence, promising that other needs will be met when He is prioritized.
Conversely, the Bible warns against the pursuit of selfish desires and worldly ambitions that lead one away from God. In 1 Samuel 30:8, David inquires of the Lord before pursuing those who had taken his people captive, indicating that not all pursuits are righteous or lead to good outcomes. The Apostle Paul also cautions against the chase for material wealth and fame, as seen in 1 Timothy 6:10, where he notes that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evils. Ultimately, biblical pursuit reflects the dual pathways available to humanity: to chase after God and His ways, leading to life-giving fulfillment, or to follow ephemeral desires that can result in spiritual emptiness and turmoil. Each pursuit calls for reflection on one’s motives and the ultimate consequences of these paths.
The theme of pursuit in the Bible extends to the search for wisdom and understanding, which are portrayed as virtues worthy of any believer’s efforts. In the Book of Proverbs, wisdom is often personified and depicted as something desirable to seek after, emphasizing that the pursuit of understanding leads to a deeper relationship with God. Proverbs 2:4 encourages believers to seek wisdom as one would seek silver, implying diligence and effort in the quest for spiritual insight. This pursuit not only enriches one’s understanding but also aligns one’s life with divine principles, leading to enhanced discernment that honors God.
Additionally, the idea of pursuing spiritual gifts is prominent in the New Testament, particularly within the context of the Christian community. In 1 Corinthians 14:1, Paul exhorts the church to “pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts.” This pursuit serves both the edification of the individual and the collective body of believers, illuminating the communal aspect of faith where one’s pursuits contribute to the growth and strength of the church. The pursuit of spiritual gifts is not for personal glory but is meant to enhance love and service within the community, showcasing the transformative power of divine gifts when used in alignment with God’s will. Ultimately, the biblical narrative encourages believers to reflect on their pursuits, guiding them toward paths that foster spiritual growth, community, and a more profound connection with God.
The Pursuit of Righteousness
In the Bible, pursuit often signifies a deep yearning for righteousness and moral integrity. This pursuit is not merely about adhering to laws or commandments but involves a heartfelt commitment to living in a way that reflects God’s character. Believers are encouraged to actively seek out righteousness, which leads to a life that honors God and positively impacts others. This pursuit is seen as a transformative journey that shapes one’s character and actions.
The Pursuit of God
Another significant aspect of pursuit in the Bible is the quest for a deeper relationship with God. This pursuit involves seeking intimacy with the Creator through prayer, worship, and the study of Scripture. It emphasizes the importance of knowing God personally and experiencing His presence in daily life. This pursuit is often depicted as a lifelong journey, where believers are called to draw closer to God, trust in His guidance, and rely on His strength.
The Pursuit of Purpose
The Bible also speaks to the pursuit of purpose and calling in life. Believers are encouraged to seek out the unique plans that God has for them, which often involves using their gifts and talents for His glory. This pursuit is about understanding one’s role in the larger narrative of God’s kingdom and actively engaging in service to others. It reflects a desire to live a life that is meaningful and aligned with divine intentions, contributing to the greater good of the community and the world.
How to Seek God’s Will for a Better Christian Life
Seeking God’s will is a deeply personal journey that requires both patience and openness. Start by immersing yourself in prayer and scripture, as these are the primary ways God communicates with us. Ask Him to reveal His desires for your life, and be prepared to listen—sometimes His answers come in the quiet moments or through the wise counsel of others. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can support and challenge you in your faith. Remember, seeking God’s will isn’t just about making big decisions; it’s about aligning your daily choices with His purpose. Trust that as you take steps in faith, God will guide you, and don’t be afraid to embrace the journey, even when it feels uncertain. Each day is an opportunity to grow closer to Him and reflect His love in the world around you.
Bible References to Pursuit in the Bible:
Exodus 14:5-9: 5 When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled, the mind of Pharaoh and his servants was changed toward the people, and they said, “What is this we have done, that we have let Israel go from serving us?”
6 So he made ready his chariot and took his army with him,
7 and took six hundred chosen chariots and all the other chariots of Egypt with officers over all of them.
8 And the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and he pursued the people of Israel while the people of Israel were going out defiantly.
9 The Egyptians pursued them, all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots and his horsemen and his army, and overtook them encamped at the sea, by Pi-hahiroth, in front of Baal-zephon.
Deuteronomy 1:42-44: 42 And the Lord said to me, ‘Say to them, Do not go up or fight, for I am not in your midst, lest you be defeated before your enemies.’
43 So I spoke to you, and you would not listen; but you rebelled against the command of the Lord and presumptuously went up into the hill country.
44 Then the Amorites who lived in that hill country came out against you and chased you as bees do and beat you down in Seir, as far as Hormah.
Joshua 10:16-19: 16 These five kings fled and hid themselves in the cave at Makkedah.
17 And it was told to Joshua, “The five kings have been found, hidden in the cave at Makkedah.”
18 Joshua said, “Roll large stones against the mouth of the cave and set men by it to guard them,”
19 But do not stay there yourselves, pursue your enemies and attack their rear guard. Do not let them enter their cities, for the Lord your God has given them into your hand.”
Judges 4:16-22: 16 But Barak pursued the chariots and the army to Harosheth-hagoyim, and all the army of Sisera fell by the edge of the sword; not a man was left.
17 But Sisera fled away on foot to the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, for there was peace between Jabin the king of Hazor and the house of Heber the Kenite.
18 And Jael came out to meet Sisera and said to him, “Turn aside, my lord; turn aside to me; do not be afraid.” So he turned aside to her into the tent, and she covered him with a rug.
19 But Sisera fled away on foot to the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, for there was peace between Jabin the king of Hazor and the house of Heber the Kenite.
20 And he said to her, “Stand at the opening of the tent, and if any man comes and asks you, ‘Is anyone here?’ say, ‘No.’”
21 But Jael the wife of Heber took a tent peg, and took a hammer in her hand. Then she went softly to him and drove the peg into his temple until it went down into the ground while he was lying fast asleep from weariness. So he died.
22 And behold, as Barak was pursuing Sisera, Jael went out to meet him and said to him, “Come, and I will show you the man whom you are seeking.” So he went in to her tent, and there lay Sisera dead, with the tent peg in his temple.
1 Samuel 23:25-28: 25 And Saul and his men went to seek him. And David was told, so he went down to the rock and lived in the wilderness of Maon. And when Saul heard that, he pursued after David in the wilderness of Maon.
26 And Saul went on one side of the mountain, and David and his men on the other side of the mountain. And David was hurrying to get away from Saul. As Saul and his men were closing in on David and his men to capture them,
27 But a messenger came to Saul, saying, “Hurry and come, for the Philistines have made a raid against the land.”
28 So Saul returned from pursuing after David and went against the Philistines. Therefore that place was called the Rock of Escape.
1 Samuel 30:8-10: 8 And David inquired of the Lord, “Shall I pursue after this band? Shall I overtake them?” He answered him, “Pursue, for you shall surely overtake and shall surely rescue.”
9 So David set out, and the six hundred men who were with him, and they came to the brook Besor, where those who were left behind stayed.
10 But David pursued, he and four hundred men. Two hundred stayed behind, who were too exhausted to cross the brook Besor.
2 Samuel 2:19-23: 19 And Asahel pursued Abner, and as he went, he turned neither to the right hand nor to the left from following Abner.
20 So Joab and Abishai his brother killed Abner, because he had put their brother Asahel to death in the battle at Gibeon.
21 And Abner said to him, “Turn aside to your right hand or to your left, and seize one of the young men and take his spoil.” But Asahel would not turn aside from following him.
22 And Abner said again to Asahel, “Turn aside from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I lift up my face to your brother Joab?”
23 But he refused to turn aside. Therefore Abner struck him in the stomach with the butt of the spear, so that the spear came out at his back. And he fell there and died where he was. And all who came to the place where Asahel had fallen and died, stood still.
2 Samuel 22:38-41: 38 I pursued my enemies and destroyed them,
and did not turn back until they were consumed.
39 I consumed them; I struck them down, so that they did not rise; they fell under my feet.
40 For you equipped me with strength for the battle; you made those who rise against me sink under me.
41 You made my enemies turn their backs to me, those who hated me, and I destroyed them.
1 Kings 20:20-22: 20 They struck down every man in it, but each man fled to his own home.
21 And the king of Israel went out and struck the horses and chariots, and struck the Syrians with a great blow.
22 And the prophet came near to the king of Israel and said to him, “Go, strengthen yourself, and consider well what you have to do, for in the spring the king of Syria will come up against you.”
Psalm 18:37-42: 37 I pursued my enemies and overtook them, and did not turn back till they were consumed.
38 I thrust them through, so that they were not able to rise; they fell under my feet.
39 For you equipped me with strength for the battle; you made those who rise against me sink under me.
40 You made my enemies turn their backs to me, and those who hated me I destroyed.
41 They cried for help, but there was none to save; they cried to the Lord, but he did not answer.
42 I beat them fine as dust before the wind; I cast them out like the mire of the streets.
Psalm 23:6: 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Psalm 34:14: 14 Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
Psalm 119:1-3: 1 Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord!
2 Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart.
3 They do not walk in the way of the wicked.
Proverbs 21:21: 21 Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness
will find life, righteousness, and honor.
Isaiah 51:1-2: 1 “Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness,
you who seek the Lord:
look to the rock from which you were hewn,
and to the quarry from which you were dug.”
2 Look to Abraham your father
and to Sarah who bore you;
for he was but one when I called him,
that I might bless him and multiply him.
Jeremiah 29:12-14: 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you.
13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.
14 I will be found by you, declares the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, declares the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.
Lamentations 3:25-26: 25 The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him.
26 It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
Hosea 6:1-3: 1 “Come, let us return to the Lord;
for he has torn us, that he may heal us;
he has struck us down, and he will bind us up.”
2 After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up, that we may live before him.
3 Let us know; let us press on to know the Lord; his going out is sure as the dawn; he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth.
Amos 5:14-15: 14 Seek good, and not evil, that you may live; and so the Lord, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said.
15 Hate evil, and love good,
and establish justice in the gate;
it may be that the Lord, the God of hosts,
will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph.
Matthew 6:31-33: 31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Luke 11:9-10: 9 And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
10 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.
Romans 9:30-32: 30 What shall we say, then? That Gentiles who did not pursue righteousness have attained it, that is, a righteousness that is by faith;
31 but that Israel who pursued a law that would lead to righteousness did not succeed in reaching that law.
32 Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone,
1 Corinthians 14:1: 1 Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.
Philippians 3:12-14: 12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.
13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
1 Timothy 6:11-12: 11 But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.
12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
2 Timothy 2:22: 22 So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
Hebrews 12:14-15: Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.
15 See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled;
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.