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"Simple Pursuit" by John Long: Finding Joy in the Everyday Moments


John Long wrote "Simple Pursuit" after realizing he had spent years chasing the next big thing for God, but in the meantime his family suffered. The real grand moments aren't found on a stage (or at work), they are found in moments like at the supper table, in bedtime prayers, in the waking of children in the morning, and while standing with a brother in his laughter and sorrow. 

John Long - Simple PursuitIt's in those moments that we will find God: "My reward is knowing that you're closer than my breath." It's these moments that make us ask ourselves why we are chasing the applause when the King is already within whispering distance. Instead of building towers, John Long suggests choosing a slower, lower altar: "I will live a life that's slower… I find my joy here in the… still."

This song is one of those beautiful nudges in life, one that challenges us to trade the big race for the rhythm of "ordinary days." The lyrics point us to the real and simple sparks of revival that we may find in life, such as the breaking of bread, the wiping of tears, and reading Scripture while the rest of the house is quiet.

May this song help you to see God in the peanut butter sandwiches, the morning coffee, and those precious moments with family and loved ones. You don't need permission to stop proving yourself… Just start your simple pursuit of God in the simplest moments of your daily life.

(Related scripture: Psalm 23:1; Psalm 46:10; Acts 2:46)

Connect with John Long
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnleslielong/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/JohnLong.Official
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnlongofficial

Would you like to hear more CCM music? Then check out our Christian playlists on: https://www.christiandance.eu/playlists

PS: Did you know that the posts we have on Christian Music Today also contain the backstories that artists have shared with us? Check it out on: https://christianmusictoday.eu/

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