Seeking God for Who He Is, Not Just What He Can Give Us

As believers, we often fall into a mindset of seeking God primarily when we need something. Our prayers can turn into lists of requests, our worship clouded with thoughts of our own needs, and our quiet time with God shifts into problem-solving sessions. But what if we shifted our hearts to seek God for who He is, rather than simply for what He can do? Scripture points us toward a relationship with God based on reverence, awe, and love, independent of our desires or circumstances.

In the book of Psalms, David expresses a deep yearning for God, not just in times of need but in all circumstances. In Psalm 27:4, he writes, “I have asked one thing from the Lord; it is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, gazing on the beauty of the Lord and seeking Him in His temple” (CSB). David’s longing was simply to be near God, to experience His presence, to dwell with Him. His heart’s desire was centered on God Himself, not on what God could provide.

This challenges us: Are we seeking God as a source of comfort, wisdom, or power, but stopping there? Or are we also coming to Him just to be in His presence, to dwell in the awe of His holiness?

It’s natural to call on God in times of need, and He invites us to do so. But the prophet Habakkuk reminds us to rejoice in God for who He is, regardless of our circumstances: “Though the fig tree does not bud…yet I will celebrate in the Lord; I will rejoice in the God of my salvation!” (Habakkuk 3:17-18, CSB). In this trust, we find a peace that is not dependent on our circumstances.

Seeking God for who He is requires placing trust in His character above our needs. Romans 5:8 tells us, “God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (CSB). God’s love was fully revealed at the cross, independent of anything He could give. This sacrificial love invites us into a relationship with Him that goes beyond blessings.

When we seek God only for our own gain, we risk reducing our faith to a transaction. But God calls us to place our trust in His character, His wisdom, and His goodness—even when we don’t understand His plans. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; in all your ways know Him, and He will make your paths straight” (CSB).

Job’s story is an example of faith rooted in God’s character, not in what he received. When Job lost everything, he responded, “The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21, CSB). Job’s faithfulness shows us how to trust in God’s goodness, even when life is hard.

One way to grow in this is an exercise I learned from a biblical counseling professor: reading through Psalms and journaling about God’s character. By noting God’s attributes, we move our focus from our needs to His holiness, mercy, and love. This practice transforms our relationship with Him, rooting our faith more deeply in who He is.

Psalm 16:11 says, “You reveal the path of life to me; in Your presence is abundant joy” (CSB). God calls us close, not merely for blessings, but because He Himself is our greatest blessing. May we turn our hearts toward seeking Him—His face, His nature, His unchanging love—finding in His presence all we truly need.