Building a Relationship with Jesus
I pray that each of you who are reading these devotions come to know Jesus in a personal and intimate way. There are 2 keys to building that relationship.
Once you've received Jesus Christ into your heart as your Lord and Savior, as with any relationship, you must begin to work on it. Salvation is wonderful, we are saved by God's amazing grace that sets us completely free from the bondage of sin and the chains that held us captive. As you receive Christ, your instantly forgiven from every sin you've ever committed and the weight of it is lifted immediately.
Unfortunately, many stop there. They rejoice in the freedom, then return to the bondage or as the Lord would say; your vomit. It's so sad. You see, if you don't begin to fill your heart and mind with God's Word.... something else will take over and you'll soon find yourself back in the same mess you were in before you were saved, only now the enemy loads you up with guilt and condemnation.
The Word of God says that His people are dying due to a lack of knowledge. The only way to know God is by reading about His ways, thoughts, actions and desires. There's so much truth and direction in your Bible.... enough to protect you from mistakes and lead you on the road to your destiny... the life He prepared specifically for you!
As you begin to learn about Him and the incredible love and plan He has for you, you'll be drawn by His Spirit to share your heart with Him. It's intimidating at first and you'll run out of things to say within a few minutes. It's like that awkward first date. Though it's uncomfortable... if you'll keep showing up out of a desire to know Him better, you'll realize He's been there waiting all along. One day you'll find that the reality of God's presence is as real and tangible as talking to a friend sitting beside you... yet... nothing compares to sitting, talking and listening to the creator of the universe... as He begins to speak to your heart..It's the most humbling thing you'll ever experience. Why would He desire time with us? Yet, it's the reason we were created, to fellowship, worship and serve the one who loves us more than we could possibly imagine.
Don't become satisfied with a one time experience... make pursuing Jesus your passion. It will change the very fiber of your being and sweeten everything about your life. Even trials become adventurous when you realize you're loved, favored and more than a conqueror with Him by your side, leading you through the process.
What is Christianity without knowledge and relationship? Dead religious rules and regulations with no power to change a heart or life. It's empty and disappointing hearsay, but with Him! There are no words to adequately describe.. don't miss out... seek Him today!
Romans 8:37 (NKJV) Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.
Proverbs 26:11(NKJV) As a dog returns to his own vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.
Isaiah 55:6-7 (NLT) Seek the Lord while you can find Him. Call on Him now while He is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that He may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for He will forgive generously.
Psalm 34:1-4 (NKJV) I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; The humble shall hear of it and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.