Relationship with God

RELATIONSHIP
WITH GOD

All
this becomes more powerful & possible when we enjoy a good
relationship with the Lord. Just as a dependent wife (in some
cultures) is able to enjoy the husbands privileges and the rights in
all that he possesses while continuing her good relationship with
him, so it is also with us and the Lord, who is our heavenly
bridegroom.

To
have this relationship with Him, we must first align ourselves with
His Word and allow His character to be molded in us, and not
compromise on His principles.

We
serve a loving God, who is kind and patient with us, and also waits
for us to change. But He is also unchangeable in His character, and
will not alter His principles. We cannot bribe Him or influence Him
wrongly, but the only option we have is to be obedient to Him.

That’s
why Jesus said, “If you love me, obey my commands.” We cannot say
we love the Lord when we are unwilling to obey His commands. That is
not true love. Once we depend upon Him, He will help us, lead us and
guide us by His Spirit, who enables us to obey Him.

Disobedience
breaks our relationship with God.

The
Word of God says, “Let no one deceive you with their empty
words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who
are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them.” (Eph
5:6, 7)NIV

Jesus
said, “And teaching them to obey everything I have commanded
you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
(Matthew 28:20) NIV

Hence,
in order to have a good relationship with the Lord, it is important
to obey Him. Obedience is the key by which we can express our Love
for Him.

“If
you love Me, obey My commandments.” (John 14:15)
NKJV

“He
who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he
who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love Him and
manifest myself to Him.” (John 14:21) NKJV

“Jesus
answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep my
Word; and My father will love him, and We will come to him and make
Our home with him.” (John 14:23) NKJV

Our
love for Him gives us the willingness to obey Him. It is His Holy
Spirit that helps us to be obedient and to walk according to His
ways.

From “Catch the Glorious Fire” by Ps Paul Quadros