Knowledge vs Relationship

Growing in Grace and the Knowledge of God

Through the careful study and the gathering of facts in Scripture, with patient effort and continual prayer, we can know the nature of God. It is through His Word that God makes Himself known. However, it is through a relationship with Jesus Christ that we can draw near to Him. God wants for His children to know who He is. But it is not by a mere intellectual knowledge that we come to know Him, "God is Spirit" (John 4:24). Therefore, He can only be known spiritually. The Holy Spirit has to shine in our hearts to give us "the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ" (2 Corinthians 4:6). We should not take for granted what God has so graciously given to us. We are to grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus (2 Peter 3:18). As Christians, we are to "walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God" (Colossians 1:10).

LORD, thank you for shining in our hearts and opening our eyes to know who you are. It is through a relationship with Jesus Christ, your Son, that makes this possible. May we continually grow and walk in a manner worthy and fully pleasing to you. I pray for my family, friends, and those around me to understand who you are. I pray that they come to a saving relationship with you. Without you we are a lost and dying world. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.