We can know of God by listening to people talk and reading what others have written; we can attend church every Sunday, devote our time and talents, and still might only know of Him from a peripheral perspective. But, when we have an encounter with God, for instance, when He walks with us through our trials, we get to know Him personally.
I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes (Job 42:5 NLT).
Job is a perfect example of someone who learned God’s character and ways from a first-hand account after he endured inconceivable hardships. In as far as Job is concerned, you might think you would rather not know the Lord that well if that’s the price tag; nonetheless, we will have tribulations if we know Him or not (see John 16:33), but those who walk with the Lord through those trying times come out stronger and wiser on the other side.
Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.
(James 4:8a)
The Holy Spirit wants to have a personal relationship with us, not be a mere distant acquaintance. He wants us to experience Who He is, be our LORD, and be the Savior of our souls. However, it takes more than just wanting such a relationship but having a deep desire that causes us to pursue Him. Psalm 42 tells of a deer that longs for a flowing stream to quench its thirst; that same intensity is how we must seek after the Spirit—holding nothing back.
I’m going through a trial right now, but as the Holy Spirit walks me through, what I’m learning spiritually overshadows the problem. It’s humbling and a privilege to be able to know God personally.
© 2023
See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.