Growing in the Knowledge of God

Bible Reading: Colossians 1:9-18

Knowing God lies at the center of the Christian faith.  Growth is a sign of life, and growing in the knowledge of God is the sign of a Christian's life!  This knowledge is not book knowledge or hearsay. It is personal knowledge that arises from personal experience.  The knowledge of God is at the heart of salvation and all spiritual experience.  Paul prayed for the believers in Colossae that they would grow in the knowledge of God (Col 1:9-12).  Peter also prayed similarly in 2 Peter 3:17,18.  Not only did Paul and Peter pray, but Jesus also prayed that we may know the true God (John 17:3).

Being a Christian is not a mindless experience filled with Christian activities.  It involves knowledge and understanding of the Saviour.  It means establishing a personal relationship and intimate fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ.  No other religion speaks of or requires a 'personal relationship' with God.  But for a Christian, it is central to our faith. 

Why is this knowledge important?

It is important because our knowledge of God directs how we live our lives on earth.  The servant with one Talent knew his Master as a hard man and that knowledge led him to bury his Talent and get condemned in the end (Mt 25:24).  Joseph knew that all sin was against God, and this knowledge kept him from committing sin (Gen 39:9).  The thief on the Cross knew that they were being punished justly and that Jesus was sinless (Luke 23:40,41).  His knowledge gave him eternal life.  Our knowledge of God is reflected in the choices we make.  That is why 'Knowing God' is very important!  

How can we grow in the knowledge of God?

Only when we spend time with somebody can we know their thoughts, life experiences, and their needs.  If we do not spend time with our children, we will not know what they are going through or what they are up to.  Henry T. Blackaby, in his book Experiencing God, says, 'Knowing God comes through a love relationship with Him.'  We come to 'know' God as we experience Him!

Hagar came to know God as a "God who sees her." Abraham came to know God as a "God who provides." When we come to 'know' God personally like this, our faith increases, thereby changing our whole life.  The Pharisees said God would bless if the commandments were obeyed.  But Jesus said we will obey Him if we love Him (John 14:23,24). 

My friend, let the knowledge of our Saviour grow in our hearts, transforming our lives!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, as I spend time with You, reveal Yourself to me afresh.  Thank You for loving me.  Help me obey You always.  Amen.

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