Finding Passion in the Presence of God

What are you passionate about?

Passion is often associated with strong emotions, deep love, and unshakable commitment. We see it in sports, relationships, careers, and personal goals. But what about spiritual passion?
Does our desire for God match the passion we have for other pursuits?

Passion Begins with God
Passion originates from God. The Bible repeatedly describes God’s intense love for us—a love that is unwavering, sacrificial, and eternal.

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.” – Jeremiah 31:3

The sanctuary is the ultimate expression of God’s passion for humanity. From the sacrifices to the Day of Atonement, every element reveals His deep desire to restore us.

A Meeting Place of Passion
The sanctuary was God’s tryst with His people—a prearranged meeting place where divine love and human response intersect.

“So I spread My wing over you… I entered into a covenant with you, and you became Mine.” – Ezekiel 16:8

God longs for intimacy with His people. He desires a love relationship—not a superficial belief, but a deep, consuming passion for Him.

How Do We Fuel Our Spiritual Passion?
In Leviticus 16, the Israelites were called to respond to God’s presence in the sanctuary through five key actions. These same principles help fuel our spiritual passion today:
1. Gather in Worship – “Do not forsake assembling together.” (Hebrews 10:25)

• Just like Israel gathered at the sanctuary, corporate worship strengthens faith.
• If Jesus made it His custom to worship weekly (Luke 4:16), so should we!

2. Focus on Jesus as Our High Priest – “Christ appears in heaven for us.” (Hebrews 9:24)

• The sanctuary service pointed to Jesus. Are we fixing our eyes on Him?
• A deeper study of Christ’s heavenly ministry fuels passion.

3. Rest in God’s Work – “Do no work.” (Leviticus 16:29)

• Spiritual passion grows when we stop striving in our own strength and rely on God.
• Are you resting in His grace or trying to earn salvation?

4.  Humble Yourself Before God – “Afflict your souls.” (Leviticus 16:29)

• True passion for God comes from recognizing our need for Him.
• Pride kills passion. Humility revives it.

5.  Engage in Spiritual Cleansing – “Be cleansed from all your sins.” (Leviticus 16:30)

• Confession and repentance renew our passion for God.
• We cannot be passionate about God if we are holding onto sin.

What’s Keeping You from Passion?
C.S. Lewis once said:
“We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered to us.”

Many lose passion for God because they settle for lesser things. We chase temporary pleasures, while God offers us eternal joy.

But here’s the good news: God is still inviting you to meet Him.

The Ultimate Tryst: Our Final Meeting with God
One day, God’s tryst with His people will be fully realized. Revelation 21:2 describes the New Jerusalem as a bride adorned for her husband—the final reunion between God and His people.

Are you preparing for that day? Is your heart still on fire for Jesus?

Take Action Today
Reignite your passion for God by prioritizing worship.
Fix your eyes on Jesus’ ministry in the heavenly sanctuary.
Stop striving—rest in His work of salvation.
Humble yourself before God and remove spiritual distractions.
Engage in spiritual cleansing and renewal.

“Those who eagerly wait for Him, He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.” – Hebrews 9:28

God’s sanctuary is an invitation to intimacy. He is waiting to meet you. Will you show up?