Exploring Our Relationship with God

How many times do I have to learn this lesson?

Have you ever asked yourself that question? I have–and do–frequently!

This morning was one of those times.

I’ve been praying for God’s guidance on a particularly BIG issue in my life. Since I know God knows my heart, I tend to bypass the heart connection with Him, and simply go to the issue at hand.

“Lord, I need to know what Your will is in this situation. Please tell me what to do!”

It’s a little like pulling up to a fast food restaurant where a faceless voice comes over the speaker to ask, “What can I get you today?”

If I even look at the menu it’s brief, then I place my order.

“I’ll have Divine Guidance re: XYZ, please, and that’s all.”  I don’t even wait for the attendant to ask if He can get me anything else.

But God doesn’t have a drive-through window.  God is all about relationship–not short-order responses!  He wants us to come into His presence, sit down with Him for a while, without the urge to dash off in two minutes (or less).  He wants me to SEE Him, to KNOW Him better, and to LISTEN carefully to whatever is on His heart–which just may be about something else entirely, something which paints a completely different picture of my situation.

So, for this time at least, I think I’ve got it.  God is a lot like our children; He spells love T-I-M-E.  It takes time to get to know God, and for us to remember how well He knows us.  It’s all about Him and His agenda.  It’s really not about me at all. Just like our kids, God wants a relationship with us.

So instead of a fast-food solution, I will park my car, walk in, sit down at His table and FEAST on His love, compassion, wisdom, strength, and so much more….  Sure, it takes a little more time that way, but what a difference it makes!

“Hear instruction and be wise,
    and do not neglect it.
 Blessed is the one who listens to me,
    watching daily at my gates,
    waiting beside my doors.
For whoever finds me finds life
    and obtains favor from the Lord….”

Proverbs 8:33-35 (ESV)

Make today count!
Mary