I have read the bible many times, especially the New Testament. I’ve read great books by Andrew Murray, William Law, and A.W. Tozer. I’ve read sermons and devotionals by Charles Spurgeon. And then there’s “The Practice of the Presence of God,” by Brother Lawrence – my most well-worn non-bible book. All of my studying has helped me develop a close relationship with God, or so it appears.
Is diligent study really the secret to an intimate relationship with God and Jesus? I don’t think so, because based on what Jesus said and how He lived, it doesn’t make sense.
What came into my mind as I puzzled over this was what Paul frequently mentioned about faith, hope, and love. As he said, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13)
A relationship with God obviously starts with faith. But it’s love that makes that relationship grow. Though study may help, in my case anyway, without love the study is meaningless.
Reading about food will not ease your hunger. Are you hungry for closeness with God? Then love Him. Let His Spirit into your life. Taste His presence in your soul. And you will be filled, to overflowing.
His Truth Will Set You Free 
December 4, 2014 at 8:01 am
Great post! It is truly our love for God that enables us to enter into a relationship with Him. Nurturing that love through trust (and many other factors) – as you say, “taste”…increases our union and fellowship!
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December 4, 2014 at 8:07 am
Thanks for adding the importance of trust.
Regarding the “taste” image, I think Paul said something about being hungry and thirsty for God.
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December 4, 2014 at 8:30 am
Experiencing God’s love through my human experience (imperfections, strengths, failures, etc), keeps me hungry for more. He alone appeases the soul’s deepest need. The “thirst and hunger” keeps us near …
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December 4, 2014 at 8:42 am
Bear with me :) – while studying the Word is essential, living The Word is synonymous with love.
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December 4, 2014 at 8:54 am
It is so refreshing to hear someone else who sees the same need for spiritual intimacy. Knowledge alone saves nobody.
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December 4, 2014 at 10:16 am
Well said. I’d like to add that love for someone makes one want to know more about them – even to the point of reading about others’ relationship with Him and the testimony of what He has done, and is doing in their lives. “Love God with all you have, and love others the same”.
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December 4, 2014 at 7:55 pm
Simple but great :)
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