Seek His Face: Learning to Wait on God’s Direction
“Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually” (1 Chronicles 16:11, ESV).
Zach had spent years climbing the ladder in his family’s business. He liked the stability, the people, and the steady income. Yet, in the quiet corners of his heart, he felt a different pull, a desire to take his leather crafting hobby and turn it into something more.
Should he risk stepping away from security to follow a new passion? Or should he stay where he was, even though restlessness stirred within him?
Confused and torn, Zach shared his struggle with his wife. Her advice was simple but profound: “Seek God’s face before you decide.”
Driving home that evening, Zach wrestled with the phrase. What does it really mean to seek God’s face?
As he pulled into the driveway, his toddler came running to the door, shouting “Da-Da!” with pure joy. Zach scooped him into his arms, and in that moment, he understood. His son wasn’t interested in what Zach could do for him, he just wanted his father’s presence.
That’s what it means to seek God’s face. To long for His presence above answers, outcomes, or quick fixes. To come to Him like a child, trusting, waiting, resting in His love.
When you’re at a crossroads, here’s how seeking His face can change everything.
Why It’s Hard to Seek God First
We know we should pray before making decisions, but let’s be honest, waiting on God feels hard. Why?
- We’re Impatient by Nature
We live in a fast-paced world. We want answers now, not weeks or months later. - We Equate Waiting With Wasting Time
Sitting in silence before God doesn’t feel productive, but it’s often where the deepest clarity comes. - We Want Control
Seeking God means surrendering our plans. That loss of control can be scary. - We Forget He’s a Person, Not a Formula
Sometimes we treat prayer like a vending machine: insert request, get answer. But seeking His face means desiring His presence, not just His provision.
What It Really Means to Seek God’s Face
The phrase “seek His face” shows up often in Scripture, and it always carries a relational tone. It’s not just about asking for things, it’s about pursuing intimacy with God Himself.
- It’s relational, not transactional. Like Zach’s toddler running to him, we seek God because we love Him, not because we just need something.
- It’s continual, not occasional. 1 Chronicles 16:11 tells us to seek Him continually. This isn’t just for the big decisions, it’s an everyday posture.
- It’s transformative, not passive. Seeking His presence shapes us. It changes our desires, our priorities, and our perspective.
Practical Ways to Seek God’s Face
If you’re in a season of waiting or decision-making, here are a few ways you can actively seek His presence:
Make Space for Silence
Turn off the noise. Set aside time to sit quietly before God, without an agenda. Sometimes He speaks clearest in stillness.
Meditate on His Word
Instead of rushing through your Bible reading, choose a passage and linger over it. Ask, “What does this show me about God’s heart?”
Pray Honestly
Bring your questions and confusion but also bring your worship. Praise Him for who He is, not just what you want Him to do.
Journal Your Thoughts
Write out your prayers and reflections. Often, clarity comes as you put pen to paper and see how God is weaving His truth into your heart.
Surround Yourself With Godly Counsel
Seeking His face doesn’t mean isolation. God often speaks through wise friends, mentors, or community.
Be Patient With the Process
God’s timing rarely matches ours. Seeking His face means trusting He will show the way forward at the right time.
The Blessings of Seeking God’s Face
When you prioritize His presence, here’s what happens:
- Peace in the Waiting: Even before answers come, His presence calms your heart.
- Clarity in the Confusion: Seeking Him aligns your desires with His, so the right choice becomes clearer.
- Strength for the Journey: His strength carries you when your own runs out.
- Deeper Relationship: You grow closer to God, learning to love Him not just for His gifts but for Himself.
Are you facing a decision that feels overwhelming? Maybe you’re restless in your job, uncertain about a relationship, or worried about the next step in your life. Don’t rush. Don’t lean only on your own understanding.
Seek His face. Sit in His presence. Trust Him to guide you. Like Zach discovered, sometimes the answer isn’t about the “what” but about the “who.” God’s presence is the greatest gift you can seek, and from there, the next step will become clear.
A Prayer for Today
God, when I don’t know the path ahead, teach me to seek Your face above all else. Help me wait patiently in Your presence, trusting that You will guide my steps in Your perfect timing. Draw me closer to You each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Seeking God’s face means pursuing His presence, not just His provision. When you make Him your priority, He provides peace, clarity, and direction for every step ahead.
Ready to Draw Closer to God?
If your heart longs for a deeper, more consistent walk with God, This six-module course Draw Near: A Journey to a Deeper Relationship with God will guide you step by step.
