Truly Knowing God
My mail carrier, Lisa, is incredibly friendly. I see her when I’m walking in my neighborhood. We say hello–sometimes have a brief conversation, and that’s about it. So, do I really know her? The fact is, no I don’t– at least, not like I know my husband, my best friend or my mom. I share this only to say knowing about someone is not at all the same as knowing them. And this is true of every relationship, including our relationship with God.
You see, knowing someone requires time and a willingness to be vulnerable, honest, transparent and authentic. This is the DNA of all deep, meaningful, lasting relationships. The Bible describes this type of “knowing” as “yada”, a Hebrew word implying a profound, intimate, and experiential understanding of someone. This is the way God knows us. And it is also the way He longs for all people to know Him.
During a dark time in Israel's history, God’s people abandoned their worship of Him in favor of Baal and other false gods. Because of this, God sent the prophet, Hosea, with a message of judgment, a call to repentance, and a beautiful, hope-filled exhortation…
“Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him. He will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn or the coming of rains in early spring” (Hosea 6:3 NLT)
Hosea’s words reveal the heartbeat of a merciful, compassionate God, a God who loves, forgives and restores. Despite the Israelite's incredibly poor choices, still God desired for them to know Him, truly know Him, and experience His faithful, forever love. It’s the same today. God still desires for all people to know Him. And this will never change, just as God Himself never changes.
So today, let’s resolve to know God, yet, not in a superficial, religious or intellectual way. Instead, let us “press on” to truly know Him as an intimate Friend, a loving Father, the Mighty Counselor and our Prince of Peace.
Pray
Gracious Father, it is a privilege to know and be known by You. I am humbled that You, the great God and King of the universe, desire to know me, and even call me your friend. I recognize that knowing You requires commitment and is a life-long pursuit. Empower me with strength and confidence as daily I “press on” to truly know You. I pray this in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Reflect
What does truly knowing God mean to you? What practical steps are you taking to make this happen?
Encourage others with your response to this week’s question HERE or in the Comments section below.