Can I know God personally?

Have you ever wondered whether a personal relationship with God is even possible? We talk about God in churches and books, but the idea of connecting with the divine on a personal level can feel distant, even a little strange. Can we really know God? Does God really want to know us? 

Perhaps you’ve felt that you’re not good enough for God. Maybe you carry guilt or shame that makes you think you’re too far gone for God’s love. Or perhaps you’re afraid of what knowing God might mean for your life. Would it require changing everything?  

The invitation to enter into a personal relationship with God is open to everyone 

These are valid questions and feelings. But here’s the thing: a personal relationship with God is possible, and it’s more accessible than you might think. 

Created for relationship 

As Christians understand it, God creates each person with love and concern. The Bible says that God has been communicating with humanity since creation - and assures us that God remains accessible and knowable. God invites us to experience a personal relationship with him. 

But what kind of God wants to connect with us? Christians believe the answer is found in the Trinity: one God existing in three distinct persons - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.  

This concept, while complex, points to the relational core of God’s very being. Before creation, God existed in perfect love and communion within the Trinity. Theologians have suggested that God created the universe to extend that love to others, to offer relationship to humankind. 

Why does it seem so hard? 

If God is all about love and relationship, then why does it often feel so difficult to connect with him? The search for God can lead us to religion, but (sadly) religion can sometimes obscure our view of God. We may encounter hypocrisy, judgement and actions that contradict the very character of God. Religion can become more about impressing others than about seeking and honouring God. 

But it’s important to remember that God doesn’t limit himself to religious structures. God is omnipresent, meaning he exists everywhere, all the time. As King David wrote: “If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there … even there your hand will guide me” (Psalm 139.) God can be found in a church, but also in a pub, in nature, or in the quiet of your own home. 

Share your thoughts, feelings, hopes and fears. Be honest and vulnerable 

Christians believe that humanity’s journey with God began with open communication and harmonious relationship. But a disobedient choice broke that connection and introduced both sin and separation. This doesn’t mean God gave up on us. Instead, God has been actively seeking reconciliation ever since, offering a pathway back to a relationship. 

Jesus came to “seek and save the lost” (Luke 19:10). He offers salvation, a way to bridge the gap created by sin, and to experience forgiveness, healing and restoration. It’s a gift of love, made possible through Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection. 

So, how do we cultivate this personal relationship with God? We trust in Jesus Christ to begin a relationship with God. Then explore three classic avenues: prayer, scripture, and community. 

Prayer is simply talking with God. It can feel awkward at first, but it’s essential for any relationship. Share your thoughts, feelings, hopes and fears. Be honest and vulnerable. Then, listen. Not for a booming voice, but for a subtle impression on your heart and mind. What thoughts or ideas come to you after you’ve prayed? Try to act on them. 

Scripture can also provide insight. The Bible tells the story of God’s relationship with humanity by revealing God’s character, promises, and instructions. As you read, ask yourself: What is God saying to me through these words? Let scripture transform you from the inside out. 

Community gives you others to journey alongside, who are also pursuing a relationship with God. Christian communities can offer support, encouragement, accountability, and a deeper understanding of God’s love. 

Connecting with God in prayer, scripture reading, and being in community will have challenging moments. Be steadfast. It’s worth the long game. 

Whole life love 

This relationship is not one-sided. Just as God gives love, so too we must love God in return. This means sharing your heart with God, confessing your sins, and offering your gratitude. It also means dedicating your life to him, seeking his ways in your decisions, and striving to live according to his commands. 

It won’t always be easy. There will be times of doubt, struggle, and unanswered questions. But even in those moments, remember that God’s love for you remains steadfast. Keep seeking him, keep communicating, and keep trusting in his promise: “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:23) 

The invitation to enter into a personal relationship with God is open to everyone. You don’t have to be perfect, you don’t have to be religious, you just have to be willing. So, take a step, open your heart, trust in Jesus Christ, and discover the God who is waiting to be found. 

Want to know more about how to follow Jesus? Find out more here 

Bruce Miller’s latest book, The 7 Big Questions: Searching for God, truth, and purpose (Global Outreach Media) is available now