Definition: One [thing] have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 27:4. It's a really beautiful and hopeful verse from the Bible! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is about wanting to connect with God deeply and find peace. Let’s unpack it part by part: “One [thing] have I desired of the LORD…” – This isn't a big request. It's not asking for something grand or complicated. It’s saying, "I desire one thing." “…that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life…” – “Seek after” means to look for it, to search for it. “Dwell in the house of the Lord” is a metaphor for living a life filled with God’s presence and love. It’s about spending your time and being centered around Him. “…to behold the beauty of the LORD…” – This means to see God’s goodness, grace, and majesty. It's about truly seeing who He is. "...and to inquire in his temple.” - “Inquire” means to ask questions or seek knowledge. “His temple” refers to God himself – His presence, His sanctuary, where he lives and interacts with us. Asking questions shows a desire for understanding and closeness to Him. So, putting it all together: This verse expresses a deep longing for a personal relationship with God. It's not just wanting His favor or protection, but actively seeking to understand and experience the divine – to see His beauty, learn from Him, and live in His presence forever. It’s essentially saying: “I want to spend my entire life in close communion with God, learning about Him, and experiencing His grace.” What does this verse mean for us today? It's a reminder that our relationship with God is incredibly important and that seeking Him – through prayer, worship, or simply spending time in quiet reflection – is essential for a fulfilling life. Do you want to explore any of these aspects further? For example: Would you like me to explain the symbolism behind "the house of the Lord" or "his temple"? Are you curious about how this verse relates to prayer?