Did you ever wonder if there was meant to be more than this? More of the power of God in your life? Doesn’t it seem like there’s a gap between your experience and your theology? Consider: “filled to the measure of all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:19); “now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us” (Ephesians 3:21).

Martyn Lloyd-Jones said, “It is possible for us to go through this world, Christian people, saved, sins forgiven, and yet living on such a low level that we know nothing about the great conflicts that are described in the Scriptures and in the lives of the saints. … [I]f we are not receiving what he has made possible, it is an insult to God. … [T]he great and constant danger is that we should be content with something which is altogether less than that intended for us.”

The late British minister diagnosis the problem as “spasmodic” seeking after God. “A half-hearted, spasmodic desire is never likely to be granted. … [T]here is always this element almost of desperation that comes in before God really hears this prayer and grants our request.” Lloyd-Jones’ prescription is “importunity,” and he cites the examples of John Newton, George Bowen, Charles Finney, and Charles and John Wesley, men who made a nuisance of themselves begging God for more of the Holy Spirit.

What we tend to do, the pastor said, is read an inspiring biography, attend an inspiring retreat, get excited for a few days, and then slip back into the humdrum.

How much do you want more of God?