One Thing I Seek

Recovering a Singular Passion for God's Presence

If you could ask God for just one thing, what would it be?

Most of us would be tempted to think big—health, provision, peace in our families, clarity about the future. And while these are all understandable desires, David’s answer in Psalm 27:4 cuts through the noise of ambition and anxiety with a striking simplicity:

“One thing I have asked 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.”

As we struggle with distraction, busyness, and divided affections, David’s prayer is convicting and refreshing. He narrows his life’s pursuit to one aim: to be near God. Not just for a moment, not just during a crisis, but all the days of his life.

The Power of a Singular Focus

David doesn’t pray for comfort, success, or escape. He asks to dwell—to remain, to live in—God’s presence. He doesn’t want a casual visit. He wants a permanent residency.

He longs to gaze on God's beauty—not to glance at it, but to linger in awe.
He wants to seek Him in His temple—not just for answers, but for communion.

This “one thing” prayer isn’t about checking a religious box. It’s about desire—deep, focused, consuming desire for the living God.

It’s this kind of singular focus that fuels lasting worship, deepens our spiritual maturity, and grants peace even in the middle of chaos.

What Are You Seeking?

Take a moment to reflect: What is your “one thing”?

• Is it control over your circumstances?

• Comfort or convenience?

• Recognition or achievement?

• Even good things—family, ministry, health—can quietly take the throne of our hearts.

Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…” (Matthew 6:33). That’s another way of saying: make God's reign and presence your “one thing.”

When we get this right, everything else takes its rightful place. But when we don’t, even our best intentions become spiritual distractions.

Learning to Linger in His Presence

David wasn’t talking about becoming a priest or living in a literal temple. In his day, the “house of the Lord” referred to the tabernacle—a simple tent where God’s presence dwelt.

For us, the reality is even more profound. Through Christ and the Holy Spirit, God has made His home with us. His presence isn’t confined to a building. We carry it with us.

But if we want to recover the singular passion David had, we must learn to slow down and prioritize His presence again. Here are some ways to do that:

• Create space in your daily schedule for undistracted time with God.

• Reorient your heart before your feet hit the floor—begin each day with prayerful surrender.

• Let Scripture reframe your priorities. It’s not just information—it’s where we see the beauty of the Lord.

• Join the gathered church not out of obligation, but hunger. Worship renews our vision of God’s worth.

Joy That Cannot Be Shaken

Psalm 27 is filled with tension—David’s life is under threat. Enemies are near. But amid fear and uncertainty, he declares: “One thing I seek…”

This is the secret to unshakable faith: making God’s presence your ultimate treasure.

David doesn’t deny trouble. He places it beneath the greater desire. And that’s what anchors him. That’s what gives him peace. That’s what fills his mouth with praise—even before deliverance comes.

“I will offer sacrifices in His tent with shouts of joy. I will sing and make music to the Lord.” (Psalm 27:6)

Joy doesn’t wait until the storm passes. It flows from a heart that already dwells with God.

Final Thought

If you're feeling spiritually scattered, dry, or distracted, maybe the answer isn’t more goals, but fewer.

Maybe it’s time to get back to “one thing.”

Let this be your prayer today:
“Lord, help me seek You, not just occasionally, but wholeheartedly. Be my ‘one thing.’”