Verse: Galatians 4:8-11
8 Formerly, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods. 9 But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable forces? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again? 10 You are observing special days and months and seasons and years! 11 I fear for you, that somehow I have wasted my efforts on you.
Thoughts
A couple of days ago we talked about how God has freed us from being slaves to sin and the ways of the world. Today I want to pick one little part of this verse and reflect on it together.
Who, in your life, do you feel very close to? How did you get that way? Probably through getting to know each other, right? You shared your life, your heart, your dreams with that person, and vice versa. You also probably shared experiences together too. Over time trust was built and a deep connection and affection for one another has grown.
Paul speaks of our relationship with Jesus in similar terms here: "now that you know God—or rather are known by God." This is a prayer for our lives. "I want to know God, and be known by him." But how?
How do I know God? It seems obvious right? The same way we know a person: by spending time, shared experiences, and listening! When we spend time with Jesus, we get to know him. It's not rocket science. He longs to reveal himself to us, we just have to make time for it to happen. As we pray, worship, read the Word, learn from others, serve others, etc etc, we get to know God.
So how do we become known by God? Seems like a trick question, doesn't it? Of course, God knows everything, so he knows us. Done! I think that misses the point. To be known by God implies we make ourselves known. Just like Adam and Even in the garden, we can hide our vulnerable selves from God. It's far too easy to substitue religion and form, for true intimacy with God.
Through prayer we can share our hearts, dreams, fears, and struggles, daily with Jesus. We can learn to invite him into every part of our lives. We can seek his wisdom and counsel. We can lean on his grace and strength. We can truly let him know us.
That is my encouragement to myself, and to you, today. I want to know God and be known by Him. Daily, let's make choices, that lead us in that direction.
Prayer
Lord I want to draw near to you, and have you draw near to me. Reveal yourelf to me, and teach me about you.