In a world filled with distractions and noise, many Christians long for a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. The good news is that experiencing God and His presence is not only possible but is at the very heart of the Christian life. But how do we go about this? Is this idea even biblical?The key lies in regaining a sense of the mystical nature of our relationship with Jesus Christ. If you bear with me through this article, I will attempt to explain why this concept doesn’t have to be a “scary” concept.
Understanding an Experience and the Mystical
To begin, let's define what it means to experience something. Experience is defined as practical contact with a person, place, or event. At the very foundation of the Christian life is this practical and relational contact with God. Our faith is not merely intellectual; it is profoundly relational. We are invited to encounter God in a tangible and personal way.
Mystical experiences, on the other hand, are those that inspire a sense of spiritual mystery, awe, or fascination. These moments draw us closer to the divine and deepen our sense of wonder and reverence for God. The Bible is filled with examples of individuals who encountered God in ways that left them awestruck and transformed.
Creating a Sense of Spiritual Mystery
One of the ways we can biblically and intentionally create a sense of spiritual mystery, awe, and fascination for the Lord and the things of His Kingdom is by practicing a rhythm of spiritual exercises and disciplines. These practices are not meant to be mechanical routines but are opportunities to cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence.
Engaging in Spiritual Disciplines
So, what does it mean to engage in spiritual disciplines? It means joyfully incorporating these practices into our daily lives. Here's how:
Daily Engagement: We should strive to incorporate spiritual disciplines into our daily routine. This might include prayer, reading the Word, meditation, worship, and acts of service. Each day presents a new opportunity to connect with God.
Maintaining Expectation and Anticipation: As we engage in these practices, we should do so with a sense of expectation and anticipation. We should approach prayer and Scripture reading not as obligations, but as opportunities to encounter God and hear His voice.
Non-Mechanical Habits: Our spiritual disciplines should not become mechanical or rote. Instead, they should be infused with joy and genuine desire. When we approach these practices with a heart full of expectation, we open ourselves to experiencing God in fresh and dynamic ways.
Relational Contact with the Lord: Spiritual disciplines are about making practical and relational contact with the Lord. As we pray, read the Bible, and meditate, we should do so with the expectation that God will speak to us and reveal Himself to us.
The Biblical Basis for Mystical Experience
Some might wonder if this approach is biblically sound. The answer is a resounding yes. The Bible supports the idea that we are to know and experience God in profound ways.
In Ephesians 1:17-18, the Apostle Paul prays that God "may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people." Even after detailing the blessings we have received in Christ, Paul prays for more—more revelation, more understanding, more experience of God's presence.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-19, Paul instructs us to "rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit." Here, we see that practices like prayer, joy, and gratitude are not only commands but are God-given means through which we engage with the Lord and position ourselves to experience more of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.
Practical Steps to Experience God
To cultivate a deeper experience of God's presence, we need to integrate these practices into our lives in specific ways:
Daily Practice: Make it a priority to engage in spiritual disciplines every day. Set aside time for prayer, Bible reading, meditation, and other practices that draw you closer to God.
Practiced Anticipation: Approach these practices with a heart full of anticipation. Wait on the Lord with the expectation that He will meet you and reveal Himself to you. This cultivated anticipation helps prepare your heart to receive from God.
Community Engagement: Engage in these practices within the Body of Christ. Fellowship with other believers, join prayer groups, and participate in communal worship. The collective experience of seeking God can amplify our individual encounters with His presence.
Conclusion
As we commit to this journey together, let’s rediscover the depth and richness of our relationship with God. By joyfully engaging in daily spiritual disciplines with a sense of expectation and anticipation, we open ourselves to experiencing His presence in profound and transformative ways.
May you be blessed as you seek Him earnestly, and may your life be filled with the wonder and awe of knowing and experiencing our great and loving God. Amen.