Searching

The key to writing is like a search for buried treasure, according to author Annie Dillard. She stressed that great ideas, for writers, come for those who seek them. For those who dig, ask, and probe.

She observed that many aspiring writers have the opposite idea. They want everything to come easily. To put in as little effort as possible. To accept what is superficial. But Dillard stressed that many important insights may not even appear on the surface. They only are revealed to those who dig. Who keep digging. Who dig deeply. This is true even for experienced writers.

The Bible describes a similar process for believers. God has prepared overwhelming blessings for each of us. Boundless wisdom. Life-changing insights. Previously unimagined understanding. But receiving these revelations requires a process. We need to seek understanding as silver, and approach it as we would approach hidden treasure. We must not be content with the superficial, shallow, or obvious.

Many in the world are content with what is popular at the moment. What seems easiest? What provides temporary pleasure, temporary relief, temporary answers? But God calls us deeper. To dig and seek.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus stressed the importance of persistence. As detailed in Kenneth Wuest’s expanded translation, He said, “Keep on asking for something to be given and it shall be given you. Keep on seeking, and you shall find. Keep on reverently knocking, and it shall be opened” (Matthew 7:7).

Remember that God has prepared countless treasures for you. But you must seek them. Knock. Ask. Search. Pray. Study. Embark on that search today. Read His Word with renewed intensity. Ask Him for greater insights and wisdom. Dig and watch as you discover buried treasure.