Job 42:5-6 My ears had heard of you
but now my eyes have seen you.
Therefore I despise myself
and repent in dust and ashes.”

There is no substitute for a personal experience of God. That said, different people experience God differently. Conversions don’t have to be dramatic on the order of Saul on the road to Damascus, but being born again isn’t a “maybe I have, maybe I haven’t” sort of thing. Even so, virtually every believer has doubted their own salvation at some point. I feel like I’m somewhat talking in circles here! However, the original point is still valid. If we have never had a personal experience of God, then our faith is merely hearsay, taking someone else’s word for things. Our faith has to start there, because we have to be taught that God is and that He loves us before we will open up to Him, but we have to take that step and welcome Him in as Lord. As has been said, a man with an experience is never at the mercy of a man with a theory. At the same time, experiencing God isn’t just for the moment of conversion. The more we grow spiritually, the easier it is to recognize Him in every facet of life. Nothing clears the mind and heart like an intimate encounter with God!

I cherish my morning times of devotion, and as a pastor I covet such times for each of the believers. I cannot force anyone into an encounter with God, but I can participate in worship that makes it much more likely. I need to analyze everything we do here, with the help of the Holy Spirit, seeking to foster ever-deepening encounters with God for everyone who enters our meetings. I tend to get distracted by mechanical things like recording and video, when what is important is the presence of the Holy Spirit. I need to be more active in personal spiritual preparation for each service, not descending into “business as usual.” If the believers are lukewarm and unfocused, they need fresh encounters with God!

Father, thank You for Your faithfulness in spite of my weaknesses. I pray that I would be fully yielded and responsive to You so that the flock may be led into growing commitment to and intimacy with You. Give me wisdom in dealing with those who see everything in black and white, as well as those who see everything in shades of gray, or even pastels. Help me feed the flock the nourishment they need, and help them receive it with joy to take it in and grow, for their blessing and Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!