RootedinHisWord

Many people say they know God—but do they really?

Knowing someone implies relationship. It means connection, communication, and time spent together. By that definition, it’s possible to know of God without truly knowing God. There is a significant difference between awareness and intimacy, between familiarity and relationship.

The Bible reminds us that knowledge alone is not the same as relationship:

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
—John 8:32

I can say that I know Him—not just because I’ve heard about Him, but because I have developed a personal relationship with Him. I know God as my personal Savior. That relationship did not happen overnight; it grew through time, trust, prayer, and obedience.

Jesus Himself emphasizes the importance of truly knowing Him:

“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”
—John 17:3

A relationship is never one-sided. Yet many people call on the name of the Lord only when they want something. They ask for help, provision, healing, or direction—but refuse to fully accept Jesus Christ as their Savior or commit to growing in relationship with Him.

Scripture speaks clearly about this kind of one-sided faith:

“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”
—Matthew 15:8

God desires more than our requests—He desires our hearts.

God is not simply a God we call on in moments of crisis. He is not a convenience or a last resort. He is so much more than that. He desires daily fellowship with us.

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”
—James 4:8

Through relationship, I have come to know Him personally—not just by name, but by experience:

• Jehovah Tsidkenu — The Lord Our Righteousness (Jeremiah 23:6)
• Jehovah Shalom — The Lord Is Peace (Judges 6:24)

These names became real to me not through asking, but through abiding.

Any meaningful relationship requires time. Time to listen. Time to speak. Time to grow. The same is true with God. When we spend time in His Word, we begin to discover not just what God can do—but who He is.

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
—Psalm 119:105

“Come near to God and He will come near to you.”
—James 4:8

We often focus on what we require from God, but we rarely reflect on what God requires from us. God desires obedience, intimacy, faith, and surrender.

“He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
—Micah 6:8

God is faithful, present, and always willing to draw closer. But relationship requires participation.

So let me ask you this:

Are you spending enough time getting to know Him?
Or are you comfortable with a one-sided relationship?

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
—Jeremiah 29:13

The invitation to know God deeply is always open. The question is—how will you respond?

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