We live in a time where instant gratification is the order of the day. Like the Amazon prime advert, we expect things as soon as possible - instantaneous or next day delivery at the latest. Tenacity and perseverance are skills we need to cultivate, not just in ourselves but also in the young people we minister to.

At times, we've all struggled with the problem of being unable to see God in our situation. Disappointment and bitterness can stop us from living in the reality of the power of God. Power that can change us and our situations when we seek Him.

How then should we approach God?

Read Luke 11

Jesus begins by teaching his followers how to pray. He then shares a humorous story about a friend desperate to find help in his hour of need:

Imagine it’s nearing midnight. There's an unexpected knock at the door. Your friend is hungry - they haven’t eaten all day. Unfortunately for them, you’ve just got back from holiday and there's not a scrap of food in your house. The shops are closed so your only option is to ask your neighbour. You knock on the door. Not little uncertain taps on the door, but confident, authoritative knocking. Eventually your neighbour realises the only way to get some sleep is to give you what you want – some food.

Jesus says that is how we are to approach our loving Father in prayer; boldly, confidently knowing that He loves us. He tells us in Revelation 3:20 that he stands at the door of our hearts and knocks. Seeking Him is a choice we make, knowing He is waiting to be found.

We need to ask God to give us a revelation of our own need and for the needs of our young people. A revelation of our utter dependence on God to bring transformation – not just for ourselves but also for the lives of those we come into contact with.

There is no better way to see transformation than through being in the presence of God, be that alone, with others or as we go about our daily lives. What does it look like to seek God as we walk down the street, or have a conversation with a colleague? We know we are at our most powerful when we are a people who tenaciously search after the living God. He is who transforms lives.

As a young Asian person in the church I struggled with self-hatred. I grew up in a nominal Christian family with strong Hindu roots and influences. I knew where I belonged in the Sri Lankan community. When my family and I became Christians I found it hard to find my place in church culture so different from the one I grew up in.

Despite the battle to love who I was; the colour of my skin, my curly black hair and my diminutive size; I knew God and I wanted more of Him.

Seeking Him transformed me. He revealed to me not only His own beauty but also the beauty in me, showing how my uniqueness contributes to the Kingdom of God.

The battle for lives will not be won by gifting or charisma. These are battles that will only be won through knowing God, and by demonstrating true tenacity in seeking Him. Let's seek Him, expecting Him to meet us where we are at and allowing Him to transform us in our brokenness.