Experiencing God's Presence #325

I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.

Ephesians 1:17, NIV

Many have spent years in faithful service with a focus on the service—the sowing and reaping. Many have spent years in study of the doctrines and precepts of Scripture—the nuances of theology that explain who God is in an intellectually satisfying way. Many have spent years jumping from church to church with a deep desire to taste inspiration and see the supernatural—the manifestation of the gospel in power. All spring from good intentions. None are enough.

To know Him is the goal. God’s desire is for us to say, “I want to know You and be with You.” If we miss that in life, church, family, or any other area of life, the rest doesn’t matter. We can zealously pursue the things of God without knowing God. We can study His Word and even teach it without knowing Him. We can major on the truths and actions of the gospel without knowing the heart behind it. It happens all the time, and it’s tragic.

Sure, those who believe in Jesus and His saving work are welcomed into His Kingdom. Many have focused on the works, the study, and the miracles without knowing Him deeply and still have a saving relationship with Him. But why stop there? The true purpose of Jesus’ coming and dying for us was bigger. It was to know Him—to deeply relate to Him. This is why He makes His Presence known.

When we focus on God rather than the things of God, we can live in power. We can say to the world, “God wants to know you and be with you.” The message is simple. So is the lifestyle. But many miss it. By all means, don’t. This is why He came.

Lord, forgive me for missing the mark. I want to know You—not Your Kingdom, not Your gifts, but You. Please help me see Your face.

From the book