Relationship in the Beginning
From the very beginning of time, God desired to have relationship with us. He walked with Adam and Eve in the cool of the evening. Talking with them. Getting to know them. Even when He cast them out of the Garden of Eden, He did that because of His relationship with them. He understood that they knew good and evil, yet He did not want them to eat of the fruit of life. Satan had come in and deceived them however God still loved them and wanted good things for them. He clothed them and did not leave them.
When Cain and Abel were born God was still walking and talking with His children. He spoke directly to Cain after the offering was made. God did not respect Cain and his offering. Why? As I have thought about this question and dug into cross references and commentary, I am aware that God truly does know our hearts intent. God wants our heart, not just our sacrifice. Cain was first to bring an offering and Abel had followed but God knew both of their hearts. He understands why we do the things we do.
Just before David was chosen to be king of Israel, God spoke to Samuel, the prophet, in regards to his brothers, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For [the LORD does] not [see] as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7 NKJV) Jesus warned the disciples of those that seem religious based on outward appearances but inwardly their heart is far from God. (Luke 18:9-14) He speaks boldly about religious hypocrites, warning, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence.” (Matt. 23:25 NKJV)
God has not changed
God hasn’t changed! The word says, “Jesus Christ [is] the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Heb 13:8 NKJV) God still desires relationship with us, not religious obligations. So many feel as if they have to do things to please God, but may I be so bold to ask are you sitting as Mary did at the feet of Jesus. Martha was busy scurrying around doing many task in order to please Jesus, but Jesus kindly reminds her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. “But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42 NKJV) Mary chose to have a relationship with Jesus. Her desire was to sit with Him, hear from Him, and afterwards she was equipped to do what He had asked of her.
God is still talking to His children
God is still talking today, and His desire is for you to hear His voice directly. As Jesus proclaimed, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27 NKJV). So, I ask you today, whose voice are you following?
Sometimes, we can find ourselves swayed by the words of others – whether it be a friend, a family member, a pastor, or even ourself. While seeking advice and guidance from others is not wrong, it is essential to prioritize hearing from God Himself.
Jesus, our greatest example, showed us the importance of spending time alone with the Father in prayer. In various instances, He withdrew from the crowds and sought communion with His Heavenly Father (Matthew 14:23, Mark 6:46, Luke 6:12). By carving out these sacred moments to talk with His Father, Jesus demonstrated the significance of seeking divine wisdom.
In the midst of life’s busyness, it can be easy to drown out God’s voice or mistake it for our own desires or the opinions of those around us. However, by intentionally setting aside time to listen for God’s gentle whisper amidst the noise, we open ourselves up to His still small voice. His voice will not only comfort us, but will also guide, encourage, and equip us for whatever He has planned out.
I want to encourage you today to prioritize your relationship with God. Seek moments of solitude and prayer, allowing yourself to be still in His presence. As you do, you will begin to recognize His voice speaking directly to your spirit. Don’t freak out when this happens maybe for the first time in your life. Instead remember, God longs to have a personal and intimate connection with you.
Begin today
I pray that today will be a new day that you decide that you want to walk with God, as Adam and Eve did in the cool of the day. Sharing with Him your hopes, dreams, and troubles. He is always ready to hear from you. However be encouraged to know He wants to have a conversation with you. A conversation like you would have with your best friend. In fact I pray He will become that best friend.
Ask Him, “God what do You want to share with me today.” Expect that He will answer you and be blessed by Him showering you with love and kindness. He loves you so very much and He desires to daily conversation with you. In Hebrews 3:7, 15; 4:7 it says, “Today, if you will hear His voice,
Do not harden your hearts.” May you embark on this journey of hearing from God daily and walking in relationship with Him.