Knowing God

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord

and Savior Jesus Christ.

To Him be the glory,

both now and to the day of eternity.

Amen.”

II Peter 3:18

Salvation is not solely about being rescued from hell, although that is part of the gift of salvation. The verse above instructs us to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Jesus defined eternal life in John 17:3 as knowing God the Father and Himself.  The best thing in life, bringing more joy, delight, and contentment than anything else, is knowledge of God.  Of all the states that God sees us in, knowledge of Himself gives Him the most pleasure.  In Hosea 6:6, God tells us that He desires knowledge of Himself more than burnt offerings.  In Jeremiah 9:23, we are told to revel in our knowledge and understanding of God, not in our wealth or strength or wisdom. It should be every child of God’s desire and life long endeavor to know Jesus better - the One who paid the price for our sin.  We should want to know Him deeper and more fully – the One who loved us and gave Himself for us. Anytime we open His revelation to us and look into the heart and character of God, sincerely seeking Him, our knowledge of Him increases, our view of Him is enlarged, our faith is strengthened, and our love for Him grows.  As our knowledge and understanding of Him increases, He becomes greater and greater in our hearts and minds.  He increases, and we decrease.  A true knowledge of God produces a supernatural peace in a world roiling with turmoil.  A true knowledge of God produces inexpressible joy.  A growing, true knowledge of God diminishes sin.  A true, intimate, deep, growing knowledge of God protects us, transforms us, and produces a heart and life that deeply loves and worships God. 

Have you spent time with Him today? 

May we be known, for knowing God…and for pursuing Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.