There’s no ifs, ands, or buts about it.

Long lasting relationships are work. But if you want a relationship to be beneficial to both sides, you have to have some skin in the game.
So. How’s your relationship with your Creator, huh?
Yes, relationship. It’s not enough just to believe He exists. A real relationship consists of at least two individuals walking together in any given situation.

As a husband, if all I did was believe that my wife existed, there wouldn’t be much of a marriage, right?  There wouldn’t be any kids, good conversation, rubbed feet, cookies dipped in milk, or date nights. There wouldn’t be any marriage at all.

Well the same goes for you and God.  You have to make an effort. If you’re going to make the step for believing in God, then take the next one and get to know him. He is the real deal! He’s your Provider, your Strong Tower, your Healer, your Savior, your Friend, your Refuge, your Guide, your Cheerleader!  God loves you. If you didn’t know that, now you do. If you haven’t accepted Him as your Lord and Savior yet, take the opportunity.

In Psalm 139, David outlined his relationship with God.  He realized that God loved him so much that He would be with him anywhere, any situation, at any time – day or night .  He realized that it didn’t matter if he acknowledged God or not because Love… loved him.  Unconditionally. And although David did stupid things from time to time, he was smart enough to latch on to God with his whole heart, soul, and mind. He knew he could always count on God…

Well, I know I should learn about God, but I never seem to have the time…

Do you take a shower in the morning when you get up? Talk to Him.
Do you drive to work? Ask Him to be a part of everything you do today.
How much time do you spend surfing the web while you are at work? Maybe it’s time to re-prioritize.
At home? Pray with your family.
Incidentally, the amplifier on my 2003 Mini Cooper croaked. It costs a grand for a new one. Ergo, lots of quiet time. I have seen my relationship with God explode since that happened. I had to apologize to Him for being so silent. Now relationship business between us gets done.  Much of the time, I listen and His Holy Spirit speaks to me. I just open my heart to him. You can do this!

Let me add one more thing… If you’re married, one of the greatest things you can do for your spouse is learn to let God love you . The Word says God is Love.  It’s just like saying I am a human. Learning to receive God’s love supercharges your ability to love others–especially your spouse. It’s awesome!

Taking time to connect with God, grow my relationship with Him, and learn everything I can about him is probably the most fulfilling thing I have ever done with my life. Everything else I am involved with is enhanced by His presence in it. Everything.

So sure, relationships are work. But they enhance your life–if they didn’t, they wouldn’t be worth the effort.
Isn’t everyone you love worth the effort?

-Alan

(image courtesy of Jason Burmeister)