This morning, we officially began our Bible study on Experiencing Jesus Really by John Eldredge, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to walk through this journey with a special group of men every Saturday morning.
We come from different denominational backgrounds, different life experiences, and different seasons of faith. Some of us have reservations about what we might call “touchy-feely” theology, while others really appreciate the emphasis on experiential faith and learning to walk closely with God.
Despite our differences, we are united in our hunger for spiritual growth. Our very first session reminded me that following Christ is not just about learning more information—it’s about cultivating a living, growing relationship with Him. As we worked through our discussion this morning, three key lessons stood out to me.
Childlike Faith and Humility Open the Door to Experiencing Jesus
One of my biggest takeaways was the importance of approaching Jesus with childlike faith and humility. Children trust naturally. They don’t overanalyze. They don’t demand all the answers before believing. They simply trust the one who loves them. In the same way, Jesus invites us to come to Him with open hearts—dependent, teachable, and willing to follow.
Too often, we try to approach God with our knowledge, experience, or spiritual “résumé.” But real intimacy begins when we lay those things down and say, “Lord, I need You. I trust You. Teach me.”
Experiencing Jesus really requires letting go of pride and choosing trust—every day.
Intimacy with God Requires Space from Distractions
Another strong reminder was the need to intentionally create time and space for God. We live in a world filled with noise—phones, television, news, responsibilities, and endless notifications. If we are not careful, these distractions quietly crowd out our time with the Lord.
Spending time with Jesus doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when we choose to set things aside and make room for Him. That may mean: Turning off devices, waking up a little earlier, finding a quiet place, being fully present in prayer and Scripture.
If we truly desire intimacy with Christ, we must be willing to protect that time and treat it as sacred.
Building Intimacy with Jesus Is a Lifelong Process
The third lesson that stood out to me is that deep relationship with Jesus is a process. There are no shortcuts. No instant maturity. No overnight transformation. Growing close to Christ takes:
Consistency
Patience
Faithfulness
Perseverance
Some days we will feel close to Him. Other days we may feel distant. But the key is to keep showing up—keep praying, keep reading, keep trusting, keep walking.
Just like any meaningful relationship, intimacy with Jesus develops over time through shared experiences, honest conversations, and faithful commitment.
North Star
A real relationship with Jesus grows through humble trust, intentional time, and faithful perseverance.
Reflection Questions
In what areas of my life do I struggle most to trust Jesus like a child?
What distractions most often interfere with my time alone with God?
What practical steps can I take to grow more consistently in my relationship with Christ?
Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus,Thank You for inviting me into a real and living relationship with You. Teach me to trust You with a childlike heart. Help me to set aside distractions and make space for You each day.
Give me patience and perseverance as I grow in my walk with You. I desire to know You more, love You more, and follow You more faithfully. Lead me, guide me, and draw me closer to Your heart.
Amen.