Knowing about God is not the same as knowing God

Posted byoakhillcrossvillePosted inUncategorized
Good morning everyone,
 
Our theme for this month: “Sanctification”
 
Our Bible verse for today: “Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.” 2 John 3 (NIV)
 
Our thought for today: “Knowing about God is not the same as knowing God”
 
I once knew a man who was practically a walking encyclopedia of the Bible. I could cite verses I had memorized, but he could site entire passages and even entire chapters from memory. And, he always had an answer. Regardless of the issue, he could tell you something the Bible had to say about it.
 
However, the man was also reserved and somewhat unapproachable in his demeanor. He was often blunt, sharp, and unkind in the way he spoke to people. He was impatient with others and frequently came across as critical and judgmental. Yes, he was a walking encyclopedia of the Bible, but I saw little of Jesus in his manner. I often wondered if he was truly saved. I saw little of the grace, mercy, peace, and love that John wrote about in 2 John 3 above.
 
Knowing about God is not the same as knowing God. In yesterday’s devotional I wrote about Jesus being the way, the truth, and the life. I explained that He is the Truth in that He is the embodiment of truth, and by means of His Holy Spirit living in our heart and serving as teacher, counselor, and guide, He opens our eyes to truth. But simply knowing facts and having lots of information (even true and accurate information), is not the same as truly knowing Jesus. As James reminds us in James 2:19, “Even the demons believe – and they shudder.”
 
Regarding Scriptural truth and the impact it should have on us, author Alan Fadling observed, “Knowing the truth is having a heart, mind, soul, and body that are increasingly in harmony with kingdom reality.” When we truly “know” Jesus, we become changed people. As His disciples we progressively become more like Him in character and manner, and our lives display that. We don’t just talk like we’re saved – we live like we’re saved.
 
Knowing about God is not the same as knowing God. If you have the Holy Spirit of God living in your heart it should be evident to all – not just by the things you say, but by the way you live.
 
God bless,
Pastor Jim
 
(If you like what you’re reading in these daily devotionals, and if you would like more content from Oak Hill Baptist Church, join us on Sundays at 10:00, in-person if you are nearby or, if you are geographically distant or if you just can’t make it, online at www.YouTube.com/@oakhillbaptistcrossville
 
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