Relating to God

"I wish I could do what they do.”

I come across this statement often in spiritual direction. I've even murmured it myself a few times! We wish we could pray like someone else, or read the Bible like someone else. Perhaps you want to speak up more about Jesus in your life, like someone else in your church. There are all sorts of ways we believe we fall short.

But, if we all did the same thing, how would the Kingdom of God be advanced? Not only that, it would get very boring. Mark Twain said, “Comparison is the thief of joy,” and I agree! God loves variety.

So, what do we do?

I'd like to offer a different perspective. John Calvin (1509-1564), a father of the early Protestant church, said “the knowledge of God and the knowledge of ourselves are bound together by a mutual tie.” Instead of focusing on what other people do, spend time reflecting on what you do.

Consider these questions to help get you started:

• What do you really enjoy doing?

• What is something that comes naturally to you?

• The last time you felt the presence of God, what were you doing?

• Where do you go to seek God?

• Where are you gifted?

We don't do what someone else does, because we were created to be us. We relate to God differently than other's in our church because the body of Christ isn't just one big hand or one big foot. It's a lot of people, doing a lot of different things to impact those around them.

Did you have time to reflect on those questions? Here's how you can apply them.

In Sacred Pathways author Gary Thomas outlines nine different ways we may relate to God. You can find a helpful series here, but this is a brief overview. We draw close to God,

1. In nature

2. Through the five senses

3. In church traditions

4. Through simplicity

5. By engaging in causes

6. Through taking care of others

7. Seeing God move

8. In reflection and prayer

9. Through learning and teaching

However, we don’t just relate in one way, we are a mash up of all nine ways. For example, I relate to God largely through nature, learning and teaching. Study is my worship. If you absolutely love cooking meals for others, that is your worship. Enjoy living simply? Simplicity is your worship. Paul says, "whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31, NIV).

You don’t have to set aside time in the morning for prayer and devotions, or read your Bible every night before bed. Although I do encourage some sort of prayer and Bible reading in your daily life. Maybe for you sitting outside and enjoying a sunset is where you experience God the most, so go enjoy God's creation! Besides, who likes doing stuff they "have to" anyway?

This is just one small piece of the puzzle that is relating to God, but it may help you get started. I know it opened my eyes when I found out!

Reflection & Action:

What is your pathway to God? Find ways to include this in your day.

Resources:

Sacred Pathways by Gary Thomas

The Gift of Being Yourself by David G. Benner

(Please note that these are affiliate links. That means, if you chose to buy these products using these links, I will receive a small compensation. However! I would never recommend anything I don't fully support.)