Step by Step through Intimacy with God

I've started reading through the book of Job. The first thing that strikes me about Job's character is his knowledge of God. His response to the death of his children and the loss of his livestock and property demonstrates his deep understanding who God is. Instead of blaming God, Job humbly declares, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised" (Job 1:21).

Wow... I tried putting my myself in Job's situation, and wondered if I would be able to respond in the way that Job had responded - with great humility and recognition of God's character. Job further shows his understanding of God when he rebukes his wife: "Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" (Job 2:10). Job acknowledges God's sovereignty, and is willing to accept good and trouble alike. Even though he might not know why God is allowing this trouble in his life to happen, Job trusts that God knows what He is doing, and accepts the trouble.

This kind of understanding can only come from a faith that is molded and refined through daily worship and devotion to God. This is something that I oftentimes overlook because I underestimate how important it really is. God, however, is reminding me how crucial being in an intimate relationship with Him is to my life.

Oswald Chambers asserts, "A private relationship of worshiping God is the greatest essential element of spiritual fitness" (My Utmost for His Highest, "Missionary Weapons"). God did not choose me primarily to work and do things for Him; He chose me to be in an intimate relationship with Him.

And yet, I always give Him the cold shoulder by not having quiet time with Him. He wants me to know Him more so that I may live. He wants me to know Him more so that I would stop worrying and being anxious about everything. He wants me to know Him more so that I will trust in Him as Job trusted in the Lord.

He understood the meaning of "Lord"... Master and Ruler over all things. The master of anything has full understanding and control over everything that belongs to him. In the same way, God - as Master of my life - understands me and is in full control of everything in my life. And most importantly, I belong to Him.

I want to be used by God. But that means that I must be in an intimate relationship with Him - an intimate relationship that grows and flourishes everyday.