Relationship with God

RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

All this becomes more powerful & possible when we enjoy a good relationship with the Lord. Just as a dependent wife (in some cultures) is able to enjoy the husbands privileges and the rights in all that he possesses while continuing her good relationship with him, so it is also with us and the Lord, who is our heavenly bridegroom.

To have this relationship with Him, we must first align ourselves with His Word and allow His character to be molded in us, and not compromise on His principles.

We serve a loving God, who is kind and patient with us, and also waits for us to change. But He is also unchangeable in His character, and will not alter His principles. We cannot bribe Him or influence Him wrongly, but the only option we have is to be obedient to Him.

That’s why Jesus said, “If you love me, obey my commands.” We cannot say we love the Lord when we are unwilling to obey His commands. That is not true love. Once we depend upon Him, He will help us, lead us and guide us by His Spirit, who enables us to obey Him.

Disobedience breaks our relationship with God.

The Word of God says, “Let no one deceive you with their empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them.” (Eph 5:6, 7)NIV

Jesus said, “And teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) NIV

Hence, in order to have a good relationship with the Lord, it is important to obey Him. Obedience is the key by which we can express our Love for Him.

“If you love Me, obey My commandments.” (John 14:15) NKJV

“He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love Him and manifest myself to Him.” (John 14:21) NKJV

“Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep my Word; and My father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.” (John 14:23) NKJV

Our love for Him gives us the willingness to obey Him. It is His Holy Spirit that helps us to be obedient and to walk according to His ways.

From "Catch the Glorious Fire" by Ps Paul Quadros