In what ways can we "dine with Him" in our spiritual practices? Opening the Door: The Invitation of Revelation 3:20 “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.” (Revelation 3:20) When Jesus speaks of “dining,” He pictures warm, ongoing fellowship. The table is set; we simply open the door. Here are practical ways to “dine with Him” every day. Daily Spiritual Practices That Set the Table • Feasting on Scripture – Take in His Word as real nourishment. – “Your words were found, and I ate them; Your words became my joy and my heart’s delight.” (Jeremiah 15:16) – Read, meditate, journal, memorize—let truth settle deep. • Conversational Prayer – Keep dialogue open: praise, petition, listening. – “The LORD is near to all who call on Him.” (Psalm 145:18) – “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) • Heartfelt Worship – Sing, speak, or silently adore; He “is enthroned on the praises of Israel.” (Psalm 22:3) – Worship shifts focus from circumstances to the Host at the head of the table. • Fellowship with Believers – Shared meals, testimonies, study. – “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (Acts 2:42) – Community dining extends His presence through His body. • The Lord’s Supper – Regular participation keeps His sacrifice central. – “This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” (1 Corinthians 11:24-26) – Each cup and loaf says, “He still sits with us.” • Obedient Living – Doing what He says invites deeper revelation. – “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me… and will reveal Myself to him.” (John 14:21) Keeping the Chair Pulled Out: Heart Attitudes That Foster Communion • Ongoing Repentance – “A broken and contrite heart… You will not despise.” (Psalm 51:17) – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive.” (1 John 1:9) • Expectant Faith – “Without faith it is impossible to please God… He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6) • Wholehearted Love – “Love the LORD your God with all your heart… soul… strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:5; Mark 12:30) – Love turns duty into delight. Savoring His Presence Throughout the Day • Do the mundane in His name – “Whatever you do… do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Colossians 3:17) • Live from shared life – “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20) • Keep praise on your lips – Short songs, whispered thanks, Scripture snippets—mini-meals that sustain fellowship. When We Dine with Him, Fruit Appears • Intimacy grows – “Remain in Me… you will bear much fruit.” (John 15:4-5) • Joy overflows – “You will fill me with joy in Your presence.” (Psalm 16:11) • Lives change – From the inside out, His character seasons every conversation, decision, and relationship. The door is open; the Lord is waiting. Pull up a chair and enjoy the feast. |