Thursday, August 2, 2012

The Blessings of Intimate Relationship

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world" (John 16:33)


Our time spent with God has a dramatic impact on our daily lives. When we spend time focusing upon and listening to Him, several changes - both subtle and dramatic - begin to occur in our lives.


We begin to gain a godly perspective. The apostle Paul was certainly mindful of this. In Ephesians 1:16-19, we see that Paul actively prayed for himself and others to receive God's outlook. When we begin to see through enlightened eyes, the whole world becomes much clearer, as does our understanding of how to deal with these issues.


Spending time with God causes the pressures of life to dissipate. Jesus warned His disciples that they would (just as all of us will) face trouble in this world, but he assured them that they had no real reason to be afraid. Why fear a foe that Christ has already conquered (John 16:33)?


Meditation brings peace. In our thoroughly troubled wold, we frequently find ourselves in need of peace. Jesus promised us that true peace can be found in Him alone (John 14:27). Not only can the world not offer this genuine peace, but Paul even said that the world cannot understand God's peace (Philippians 4:7).


The search for personal satisfaction should not be our only reason for spending time with the Lord, but we cannot deny the blessings that accompany an intimate relationship with Him.


Thank You, dear Lord, that I can have an intimate relationship with You, enabling me to hear Your voice and walk in Your ways. Amen


~Charles Stanley~

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