Knowing Him

Last week I told you how God’s desire is for me and you to know Him. “Knowing Him” sounds a little nebulous and I don’t want to be unclear at all. What does it mean for us to know Jesus? I can only explain it by what I know and what my experience has been.

In the early days of my faith I didn’t know a lot. I knew Jesus loved me and that I was forgiven…and that was about it. Early on, God’s Spirit impressed how special and unique the Bible was. Now I know – it’s HIS WORD. It’s where He tells us Who He is, what He’s done, how He interacts with His children, and what this world is all about. My Bible is like an anchor that keeps me steady regardless of the crazy world around me. Reading and studying it is life-giving.

People also told me how important it was to meditate and memorize it. Early on, it was all so new that I would just read and remember everything. A lot has happened in me and my faith since then and now it doesn’t come that easy. But I do think it’s really important to have Truth readily available in your mind and heart. 

A year ago, I had a major dose of anxiety and panic attacks combined with outright fear. It was my Bible that brought me the greatest comfort with words like this:

I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry.  He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord. Psalm 40:1-3

I mean seriously! How beautiful is that! He hears us. He rescues us. He restores us. And then He lets us represent Him and bring others to Him. Are you kidding me? That’s awesome! And that little nugget was repeated over and over on miles of walks with me and my dog until it was written on my heart.

Young Woman, 

What is your anchor in this world? It’s easy to be anchored by our ambitions, our success, others’ opinions, relationships… But nothing stands the test of time like God’s Word. 

Years ago, I started with the New Testament in Matthew. I have stories and stories of how God met with me, spoke to me, and guided me as I encountered Him in His Word. If you’re not committed to another study, start there. And tell me how He reveals Himself to you. 

Originally posted 1/8/19