How can I get to really know God?

Did you know that God wants to show you more of Himself every day? Are you seeking after God with all your strength? Does your time with the Lord revitalize you, or does it feel more like a ritualistic experience?

Contrast the experience of Gomer with that of an earlier Israelite, Hannah (1 Sam. 1–2). Gomer did not care to know God. Yet Hannah sought after God with all her heart. What made the difference? Knowing God.

In Hosea 6:6, God is clear: “I desire mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” To deepen your relationship with God and remain devoted to Him:

* You must come to Him honestly. Confessing your sins and inviting Jesus Christ into your heart requires you to be vulnerable. Although such humility and repentance may be intimidating, accepting Christ is the best decision anyone can ever make.

* You must understand your reliance upon Him. Hannah saw God as her only source of comfort and power: “She was in bitterness of soul, and prayed to the Lord and wept in anguish” (1 Sam. 1:10). And because she did, He looked upon her with compassion and grace (vv. 19, 20).

* You must become interested in what interests Him. Has your desire for spiritual insight and godly wisdom declined? If so, ask the Lord to restore your longing for Him and for the things that most concern Him.

* You must know His Word. By reading the Bible, you open your heart to Him. He has given you the Holy Spirit to help you understand His Word, and He wants you to meditate on it so you can apply it to your life.

* You must observe His characteristics and ways. Read the promises that God makes in His Word. Ask Him to remind you of how He has already worked in your life—with all the wisdom, love, and power you will ever need for any challenge you will ever face.

* You must accept His invitation and follow His commands. God is constantly inviting you to walk with Him. Give the Lord total control of your decisions, time, talents, and possessions—walking in complete submission to Him. Your obedience will certainly bring great blessings.

Your knowledge of God grows as you increasingly recognize His love for you. God delights in your joyful praise and worship of Him. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” As you get to know God on deeper levels, your ability to trust and obey Him will increase. You will find your life’s fulfillment when you come to know and exalt the Lord of all creation.

Taken from The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible