Expressions Of An Intimate Relationship
May 2019 – Grace & Truth Magazine
Expressions Of An Intimate Relationship
Often when we look at people in Scripture, we are humbled. The faith of many of these individuals shames most of us. Have you ever said to yourself, “If only I could have the relationship with God that this Bible character had?”
Frequently those stories include very intimate details about their interactions with God. We can read about what those characters thought and prayed in private – sometimes the very words they expressed. These are things that only a few people at the time may have heard, or in some cases, no one but the person and God.
Our Creator wants you to know Him – not simply know about Him. He, in His Word, has revealed even His unspoken thoughts. For instance, immediately after the flood, as Noah offered burnt offerings in worship, “The LORDsaid in His heart, ‘I will never again curse the ground for man’s sake, although the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth; nor will I again destroy every living thing as I have done’” (Gen. 8:21 NKJV). I wonder if anyone knew what “the LORD said in His heart” before the Holy Spirit used Moses to write the book of Genesis many generations later? For us, it is only through the Word of God that we learn these things.
In this particular edition of the magazine we are considering a few of the songs, prayers and praises of women in the Bible. There are more in Scripture than we are able to comment on even slightly, so we encourage you to look for and study other accounts. The expressions, often simply between the woman and the Lord, vary from joyful praise to cries of deepest hurts and despair. All, however, are tied with faith, and in the process great truths about God are often presented. Whether you are a man or a woman, there are lessons in these passages for you to help you grow in your personal relationship with God.
If, however, you today continue to bear the burden of your sin and have not begun a relationship with God, begin now. Accept His offer of free salvation through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ!
By Paul Alberts