Knowing God: A Personal Relationship with the Creator

True knowledge of God goes beyond mere intellectual assent to doctrinal truths. It encompasses a vibrant, living relationship with the Triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—transforming every aspect of our existence and offering us eternal life through Jesus Christ.

The Foundation of Knowing God

"And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent" (Jn 17:3). Knowing God begins with being born-again by receiving Him who is the way, the truth and the life (Jn 1:12, 3:16-18, 14:6; Act 10:43; Rom 10:9). This initiates a relationship with the Triune God, not just the cold, lifeless accumulation of facts about God. Through the Holy Spirit we come to new life in Christ. At conversion He takes up residence within us, establishing lines of communication as He helps us comprehend the ways of God (1 Cor 2:14, 6:19). All believers have a measure of the Spirit, yet we are exhorted to be filled continually (Eph 5:18)—evident not as a mystical feeling but as ongoing surrender through conscious obedience.

The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin that creates a barrier with a holy God (Isa 59:2; 1 Pet 1:15-16). He won't allow these issues to be ignored—after all, it's in our best interest to deal with them. After sinning we instinctively run from God in shame, instead of turning to Him with repentance, for through Jesus provision has been made (1 Jn 1:9). Have sensitive 'ears' and a tender heart that responds to His promptings throughout your daily life, communing with Him continually, not just in planned times of interaction.

This is a heart (not just head) issue

Pursuing Intimacy with God

God desires to communicate with mankind as was evident in the Garden of Eden (Gen 1:28-31, 2:16-17, 3:8ff). He does not want to remain distant and impersonal. Satan will oppose our endeavours and there will be seasons of spiritual dryness and trials, but basically we are as close to the Lord as we want to be—if we seek Him, we will find Him (Jer 29:13). Place a high value on your relationship with Him and develop a devotional time of dedicated interaction.

The study of God's Word is vital, as it is His primary way of communicating with us. Just as newborn babies need milk, we need the nourishment of His Word—the guidebook for life (2 Tim 3:16-17; 1 Pet 1:23-25, 2:2-3). Meditating on its truths engrains them in our hearts (Josh 1:8; Jas 1:22-25). Prayer is our primary way of communicating with Him—not just briefly sharing our heart then quickly reverting to life's affairs, but quality time in His presence, providing Him opportunity to speak (1 Sam 3:10).

Waiting on God takes dedicated, consistent effort to hear; not that God is reluctant, but our sinful nature is at variance with His holy character. Besides regular church attendance, we should be in honest relationship with a smaller group of believers who can encourage and challenge us. Periodically fasting or having an extended time devoted to seeking God can be a source of great blessing. Some find it beneficial to meet with a spiritually mature mentor.

He knows me, do I really know Him?

The Outcome of Knowing God

Make knowing Him a continual priority, for those who have an intimate experience with God will have a strong faith and He will give enabling to be victorious (Dan 11:32). A deeper relationship with God brings growing understanding of ourselves too. Our perceived strengths can be vulnerable areas if we think we can handle these without continual reliance on the Lord. Paul said the grace of God was more than sufficient and of greater value than the removal of any affliction (2 Cor 12:9-10). We are to love Him with every part of our being (Mk 12:30). Is there something He is requiring you to lay on the altar—commanding more attention than is right (Ex 20:3)?

As Christians, we are channels connected to the divine life-source. The blessings we receive should naturally flow out to others (Jn 7:38). What He does in us is so others can be blessed through us. Abraham was called the friend of God (Jas 2:23) through faith and obedience. Jesus said, "You are my friends if you do what I command" (Jn 15:14). Paul's heart cry was "that I may know Christ" (Phil 3:10). He had experienced immense suffering to reach the level of intimacy he knew, yet was prepared for more. What value do I put on knowing God more?

An Ongoing Deepening Journey

Knowing God is not a destination but a lifelong pilgrimage. Each season brings new opportunities to encounter God more deeply. The apostle Paul, after decades of ministry, still pressed forward—"forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead" (Phil 3:13-14). There will be mountain-top experiences where God's presence feels near, and valley seasons where faith is tested. Both are essential—the mountaintops give us vision; the valleys develop perseverance (Rom 5:3-5). In dry seasons, we learn that our relationship rests not on feelings but on His unchanging character.

We move from knowing about God to truly knowing Him—His heart, priorities, and ways. This deepening comes through consistent investment in spiritual disciplines, through suffering that forces us to cling to Him, and through obedience that demonstrates our love. We were designed for progressive growth—from spiritual infancy to mature adulthood in Christ (Eph 4:14-15). The Spirit works progressively, transforming us "from one degree of glory to another" (2 Cor 3:18).

Every season has purpose

The Necessity of Time Together

How can we truly know someone without spending time in their company? Any meaningful relationship requires investment—shared moments, conversation, and presence. We cannot claim to know God intimately if we only attend to Him sporadically. The disciples walked with Jesus daily—this ongoing proximity transformed them from fearful followers into bold witnesses. Mary sat at Jesus' feet, choosing "the good portion" while Martha was distracted with serving (Lk 10:38-42). The busyness of service must never replace the intimacy of companionship.

God invites us into relationship, not a religious system. He desires our company, not merely our compliance. "In your presence there is fullness of joy" (Ps 16:11). This presence is not found in hurried devotions but in unhurried moments of genuine communion. Throughout Scripture, those who knew God deeply were those who lingered in His presence. Moses met with God "face to face, as a man speaks to his friend" (Ex 33:11). David, the man after God's own heart, wrote psalms born from hours of meditation and worship. Jesus Himself withdrew regularly to lonely places to pray (Lk 5:16). If the Son of God prioritised time with the Father, how much more should we? The question is not whether we have time, but whether knowing Him is worth making time.

Relationships require presence

Reflection and Application:

What practical steps can you take this week to deepen your relationship with God through prayer and Scripture meditation?
Are there any barriers—sin, distractions, or misplaced priorities—that hinder your intimacy with the Lord?
How might you create space in your daily routine to "wait on God" and listen for His voice?
Who could you invite into your spiritual journey as a mentor or accountability partner?