Teenagers spend significant time, money, and discipline in pursuit of material things, only to discover that no thing will bring satisfaction. Learn how to find joy, fulfillment, and spiritual enablement as Dr. Jim Van Gelderen begins a two-part series: “The Pursuit of God.”
In this stirring first part of a two-part series, Dr. Jim Van Gelderen shares a recent story from a Colorado youth camp where God moved powerfully among teens who cried out for His presence. The result? A prayer meeting that turned into what felt like a little bit of heaven on earth. In this episode, Dr. Jim challenges listeners to ask the soul-searching question: Do I walk with God daily? Discover how true joy, satisfaction, and revival begin with one life—yours—truly pursuing the presence of God.
Topics Discussed
- A firsthand story of revival during a youth camp in Colorado
- What it means to live in the presence of God
- Psalm 80 and the plea for God’s face to shine again
- Why FaceTime can’t replace real presence—and neither can theology without fellowship
- How to walk with Jesus, not just meet Him once
- Sensory experience vs. spiritual experience
- The fruit of the Spirit as evidence of God’s presence
- Dr. Jim’s freshman encounter with The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer
- Revival and the conscious reality of God’s presence
- Preparing for the Manifest Presence theme at the Victory Conference
Key Takeaways
- The pursuit of God brings satisfaction that nothing else can offer.
- God’s presence is not merely a theological concept; it is an experiential, relational reality.
- Revival begins with young people who cry out in dependence, confess sin, and intercede for others.
- If you seek God, you will find Him—but you must pursue Him with your whole heart.
- Fellowship with God is more than a moment; it’s a daily walk.

