What actions can we take to better know God and Jesus personally? why John 16:3 matters “They will do these things because they have not known the Father or Me.” (John 16:3) • Jesus pinpoints the core problem—people act against God because they don’t truly know Him. • Our goal, then, is to move from mere information about God to heartfelt, personal knowledge of Him. immerse yourself in his word • Scripture is God’s self-revelation; time in the Word is time with God. • Jeremiah 29:13: “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” • Practical helps: – Read a gospel chapter daily to stay face-to-face with Jesus. – Keep a notebook; jot what the text shows about God’s character. – Memorize key verses so He speaks to you throughout the day. listen and speak: deepen relationship in prayer • Relationships thrive on two-way communication. • James 4:8: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” • Ideas to try: – Begin prayer with a brief reading; let Scripture set the agenda. – Talk to Him through the day, not just at set times—“arrow prayers” in traffic, meetings, errands. – End each day thanking Him for specific ways you saw His hand. live what you learn: obedience builds intimacy • 1 John 2:3: “By this we can be sure that we have come to know Him: if we keep His commandments.” • Obedience transforms knowledge from theory to experience. • Action steps: – Ask, “What does this verse call me to do?” then schedule it. – Start with the next right thing—apologize, forgive, serve. – Celebrate small victories; obedience grows cumulative confidence in God. depend on the helper: the holy spirit’s role • Jesus sent the Spirit to guide us “into all truth” (John 16:13). • Rely on Him consciously: – Each morning invite His filling (Ephesians 5:18). – Expect conviction; respond quickly rather than resisting. – Look for His fruit—love, joy, peace—as evidence of deeper knowing. walk with his people • God designed community to sharpen our understanding of Him. • Join a Bible-teaching church, small group, or study partner. • Share insights and struggles; mutual encouragement keeps hearts warm. keep worship at the center • Psalm 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God.” • Set aside moments simply to adore—sing, journal, or sit quietly. • Worship shifts focus from self to the greatness of Father and Son, anchoring every other practice. grow and keep growing • 2 Peter 3:18: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” • Knowing God is lifelong; lean in daily, and He will faithfully reveal Himself more and more. |