It is not unusual to hear people say, “I believe in God.” But believing God exists and believing we can have a personal relationship with Him are two very different things.

Photo by: Steve Browne

Einstein said, “Certainly there is a God. Any man who doesn’t believe in a cosmic force is a fool, but we could never know him.” Einstein was only half right. This verse says believing God exists is not enough: “It’s impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him” (Hebrews 11:6, The Message).

This challenges church attenders, outsiders, and committed Christ-followers alike. Do we approach God expecting Him to welcome and reward us for coming? Or do we approach out of a sense of duty or guilt expecting nothing—or a scolding?

God created us in His image with the capacity to walk with Him. This sets us apart from the animal kingdom. We can fellowship with the triune God!

I love my two standard poodles. They make me laugh; they give me affection; they are wonderful companions. I can even take them on walks, but they are incapable of walking with me through life. They may pick up my moods, but they can’t comprehend or share my frustrations, joys, or goals.

Now this is amazing: a believer can walk through life with God. God has given us a nature that is closer to His than to the nature of our family pet. We can connect, share values, goals, and dreams with God.

Sin broke this relationship. But saving faith restores it. God wants a close relationship with us. Read what the Scriptures say about God’s desire for us to find Him:

• “I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me” (Proverbs 8:17, NIV).

• “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13, NIV).

• “For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened” (Luke 11:10, NIV).

Believing God exists is the first step toward faith. Believing He rewards those who trust Him ushers us into saving faith. Walking with God is walking by faith. “But my righteous one will live by faith” (Hebrews 10:38, NIV).

Where are you in your faith walk? Do you still wonder if God exists? Do you know He exists but doubt He cares for you? Are you enjoying daily fellowship with Him?

If you aren’t sure if God is knowable let me invite you to join the 21 Day Challenge (see below). If you know He is real but have lost touch, use the challenge to renew your relationship with Jesus. I’d love to hear how it goes.

I’d love to hear from you. Click here to share your thoughts.

Blessings,