Earlier on the blog, we discussed the first step of being intimate with God as the experience of the new birth (born again), a gift from God we do not deserve. You may refer to the Freebies section for a recap of the process of the new birth, or my book through the link for purchase from Amazon. Just as moving into a new geographical area requires some study and familiarization to understand the new location; likewise, a closer relationship with God involves taking some steps. Many fumbled for not devoting the time to learn more about their new found faith. The following quotes spell out some of the steps to establish the child of God in a closer walk:
”Therefore, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and firm in your faith just as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness” (Colossians 2:6-7).”If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you want, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7).
Many experience frustrations about their Christian walk because they put the cart before the horse, become followers in the Church, not giving time to the study of the word after the salvation experience, and end up with various excuses from disappointment in others or self. I was a victim of not being grounded in the word as a new Christian, and ended up a victim of some errors I could have escaped if I knew about the relevance of studying the word.
Understanding His way through the knowledge of the Word is the surest way to intimacy and the benefits. David said in the book of psalms,” How can a young person maintain a pure life? By guarding it according to your instructions! (119:9), and” In my heart, I store up your words, so I might not sin against you” (119:11). The Holy Spirit in the born again activates to guide and help through the Word in the life of the obedient believer. Jesus said the Words He speaks are Spirit and are life (John 6:63b).
The same spoken Word is Christ in the beginning (John 1:1). God spoke the Word at creation and all came into existence (Genesis1). Jesus who is the Word of God also spoke the Word during His earthly ministry and lives were affected positively. This is the same Word in the scripture as quoted earlier- if you remain in my Words and my Words in you, you will bear fruit.
Intimacy with God is an individual experience; however, the outpouring and manifestation of the Spirit is mighty, where many who are intimate with God come together in worship or fellowship unto God. We should never underestimate the power of God in our lives through the knowledge and obedience of the Word. He is still the same yesterday, today, and forever. In my personal life, even when I was not looking out for the experience, the Lord spoke to give me instructions and information, and he is still doing the same in many lives.