I am a faith filled Christian who believes in the infallible, everlasting Word of God. My upbringing in the Greek Orthodox Church provided me with traditions and stories of the faithful saints who walked this earth. As a teenager, I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior. This lifelong walk with Jesus, the Father, and Holy Spirit are exemplified by one thread: He is faithful. Even when we falter, even when we fail Him, He is there to pick us up. His love wins over all. My prayer is that we all life Him up, so all can see who He is. Then we can experience Him in His Presence.

Alexia Georghiou, Founder Life Betterment Through God, LLC

Contents

Experiencing God is at the heart of our faith. It is through our relationship with Him that we find meaning, purpose, and hope. The Bible teaches us that God is not distant or aloof, but rather He is intimately involved in every aspect of our lives. This book aims to explore how we can experience God in a more profound and meaningful way. In this workbook, you will be given journal prompts throughout to document your prayers, results of your prayers and the impact of your diligence to seek our Heavenly Father. He rewards those who diligently seek Him!

Outline

Prologue 8-9

Introduction 10-11

Chapter 1 The Nature of God 12-22

Chapter 2 Understanding God 23-33

Chapter 3 Knowing God 34-43

Chapter 4 Trusting God 44-53

Chapter 5 Obeying God 54-63

Chapter 6 Surrendering to God 64-73

Chapter 7 Walking with God 74-83

Chapter 8 Ways in Which God Reveals Himself 84-93

Chapter 9 Experiencing God's Presence 94-104

Chapter 10 Examples in History 105-129

Conclusion 130-137

Prologue

Are you ready to deepen your relationship with God? Then look no further than the book "Experiencing God" by Alexia Georghiou. In the Introduction, the stage is set for an incredible journey of discovering how to truly experience God's presence in your life.

As you delve into Chapter 1, "The Nature of God," you'll gain a better understanding of who God is and how He works in the world. Chapter 2, "Understanding God," helps you grasp the depth of God's character and how He interacts with His creation.

Moving on to Chapter 3, "Knowing God," you'll learn practical ways to grow in intimacy with God and develop a deeper knowledge of His will for your life. Chapter 4, "Trusting God," explores how to trust God's plan even when it doesn't make sense to us.

Chapter 5, "Obeying God," challenges you to take action and obey God's commands, even when it requires sacrifice. In Chapter 6, "Surrendering to God," you'll discover how surrendering to God's will can lead to true freedom and fulfillment.

Chapter 7, "Walking with God," shows how to maintain a consistent relationship with God and rely on Him in every aspect of your life. Chapter 8, "Ways in Which God Reveals Himself," explores the many ways God speaks to us and reveals Himself through His Word, prayer, and other means.

Chapter 9, "Experiencing God's Presence," you'll learn how to recognize and embrace God's presence in your life and how to cultivate a deeper connection with Him. The conclusion ties everything together and provides practical steps for continuing to grow in your relationship with God.

Finally, in Chapter 10, we give historical examples of people like you and me who experienced God.

Get ready for an incredible journey of experiencing God's presence in your life. Purchase the e-book “Experiencing God” for your own reference today and start taking practical steps towards a deeper relationship with the Almighty. Purchase the paperback book for gifts to your family and friends.

Introduction

I believe that God is actively involved in the world and in the lives of individuals. I believe that God desires to be known and experienced by all people, and that He reveals Himself to us in various ways. It is my hope that this book will inspire and encourage others to seek a deeper relationship with God and to experience His presence in their lives.

As a Christian, I base my beliefs on the Bible, which I believe to be the inspired and infallible Word of God. I believe that God is the creator and sustainer of the universe, and that He exists in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. I also believe that knowing God, trusting Him, obeying Him, surrendering to Him, and walking with Him are essential aspects of experiencing God.

In this book, I will explore these topics in greater detail, drawing on my own personal experiences and insights from the Bible. I will also discuss the ways in which God reveals Himself to us and how we can develop a deeper relationship with Him. My hope is that this book will be a source of encouragement and inspiration for those seeking to experience the presence of God in their lives.

Practical Application

Take time to pray and ask God to reveal Himself to you in a deeper way through this study.

Set aside consistent time each day to read and reflect on the chapters.

Chapter 1

The Nature of God

Before we can discuss experiencing God, we must first understand who God is. As a conservative Christian, I believe that God is the creator and sustainer of the universe. He is holy, just, and loving, and is revealed to us in the Bible. God exists in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.

As Christians, our understanding of God is based on the Bible, which reveals His nature and character. We believe that God is the creator and sustainer of the universe, and that He is all-powerful and all-knowing. He is not limited by time or space, and He is present everywhere at all times.

God is holy, which means that He is completely separate from sin and moral impurity. His holiness is perfect and unchanging, and it demands that sin be punished. At the same time, God is also just and righteous. He always does what is right and fair, and His judgments are always based on truth and justice.

God is also loving and merciful. He loves us unconditionally, and desires to have a personal relationship with each one of us. He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for our sins, so that we might have eternal life. His mercy and grace are extended to us through faith in Jesus Christ.

God exists in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. This is known as the doctrine of the Trinity. The Father is the first person of the Trinity, and is the source of all things. The Son is the second person of the Trinity, and is the Savior and Mediator between God and humanity. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, and is the Helper and Guide who empowers us to live a life that is pleasing to God.

Our understanding of God's nature is foundational to our experience with Him. When we understand that God is holy, just, loving, and merciful, we can approach Him with reverence and awe, and trust in His goodness and faithfulness. We can also have confidence in His promises, knowing that He is all-powerful and always in control.

The nature of God is central to our faith as Christians. We believe that God is the creator and sustainer of the universe, and that He is holy, just, loving, and merciful. We believe in the doctrine of the Trinity, and understand that each person of the Trinity has a unique role in our lives. When we have a proper understanding of God's nature, we can experience Him in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Biblical Example

An example in the Bible that speaks to the nature of God can be found in the book of Psalms, specifically in Psalm 139. This psalm describes God's omniscience and omnipresence, highlighting His intimate knowledge of us and His presence with us at all times.

Verse 1 says, "O Lord, you have searched me and known me!" This acknowledges God's all-knowing nature, as He is able to search and know every aspect of our being.

Verse 7-10 further elaborate on God's omnipresence: "Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me." These verses declare that there is nowhere we can go that God's presence cannot reach us.

Throughout the psalm, the author expresses awe and gratitude for God's intimate knowledge of them, saying in verse 6, "Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it." This psalm emphasizes God's omniscience and omnipresence, highlighting His closeness and involvement in our lives.

Practical Application

Spend time each day reflecting on God's attributes, such as His love, mercy, and faithfulness.

Ask God to help you trust in His character, especially during difficult circumstances.

Journal

Make a list of ways in which you have seen God's attributes displayed in your life and the lives of those around you.

Chapter 2

Understanding God

Before we can experience God, we must first understand who He is. God is the Creator of the universe, and everything in it. He is holy, righteous, and just. He is also loving, merciful, and gracious. God is three persons in one: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each person of the Trinity has a unique role in our lives.

Understanding who God is lays the foundation for our experience with Him. The Bible tells us that God is the Creator of the universe and everything in it. He is all-knowing, all-powerful, and ever-present. He is infinite and eternal, existing outside of time and space.

God is holy, which means He is morally perfect and completely separate from sin. He is righteous and just, meaning that He always does what is right and fair. We can trust Him to be consistent and just in His dealings with us.

At the same time, God is also loving, merciful, and gracious. He loves us unconditionally, despite our flaws and shortcomings. His mercy and grace are extended to us through Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for our sins.

God is three persons in one: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This is known as the doctrine of the Trinity. Each person of the Trinity has a unique role in our lives. The Father is the source of all things and the one to whom we pray. The Son, Jesus Christ, is our Savior and Mediator who bridges the gap between us and God. The Holy Spirit is our Helper and Guide, who empowers us to live a life that is pleasing to God.

Understanding God's nature and character helps us to have a proper perspective of Him. We realize that He is not like us, but rather infinitely greater and more powerful. We also understand that He is not distant or unapproachable, but rather He desires a relationship with us.

Understanding who God is lays the foundation for our experience with Him. He is the Creator of the universe and everything in it, holy, righteous, just, loving, merciful, and gracious. He is three persons in one: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. When we understand these truths about God, we can approach Him with reverence, awe, and gratitude, and experience a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him.

Biblical Example

One example in the Bible of Understanding God can be found in Isaiah 40:28-31, which says, "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." This passage highlights God's eternal and infinite nature as the Creator of all things, and also emphasizes His role as the source of strength and hope for those who trust in Him.

Practical Application

Spend time reading and studying Scripture to gain a deeper understanding of who God is.

Ask God to reveal Himself to you in a way that is true and accurate to His character.

Journal

Reflect on the ways in which you may have created your own understanding of God rather than seeking to understand Him as He has revealed Himself in Scripture.

Chapter 3

Knowing  God

Knowing God is essential for experiencing Him. We can know God through His Word, prayer, worship, and fellowship with other believers. God reveals Himself to us through the Bible, which is His inspired and infallible Word. We can also know God through prayer, which is our communication with Him. Worship is another way we can experience God. When we worship Him, we express our love and adoration for Him.

God reveals Himself to us primarily through the Bible, which is His inspired and infallible Word. Through the Bible, we can learn about God's character, His plan for our lives, and His promises. We can also learn about His love and mercy, as well as His justice and holiness. Studying and meditating on the Bible is crucial for knowing God and developing a personal relationship with Him.

Prayer is another way we can know God. Prayer is our communication with God, and it allows us to talk to Him and listen to His voice. We can share our joys, fears, and concerns with Him, and He promises to answer our prayers according to His will.

Worship is also essential for knowing God. When we worship God, we express our love and adoration for Him. We acknowledge His sovereignty and majesty, and we give Him the honor and glory He deserves. Worship can take many forms, such as singing hymns, reading the Bible, or simply spending time in quiet contemplation.

Fellowship with other believers is also important for knowing God. We can learn from each other's experiences and insights, and we can encourage and support each other in our faith. We are part of a community of believers who share a common bond in Christ, and we can experience God's love and grace through our relationships with each other.

Knowing God is essential for experiencing Him. We can know God through His Word, prayer, worship, and fellowship with other believers. Through the Bible, we can learn about God's character and His plan for our lives. Prayer allows us to communicate with God, while worship allows us to express our love and adoration for Him. Fellowship with other believers allows us to share our experiences and insights, and to encourage and support each other in our faith. When we know God in these ways, we can experience Him in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Biblical Example

An example in the Bible of Knowing God can be found in Philippians 3:10, where the apostle Paul says, "I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death." In this verse, Paul expresses his desire to know Christ on a deeper level, not just in a superficial way. He wants to experience the power of Christ's resurrection and be willing to suffer for Him, becoming more like Him in the process. This verse illustrates the importance of knowing God in a personal and intimate way, which can only come through a deep and ongoing relationship with Him.

Practical Application

Spend time in prayer each day asking God to reveal Himself to you in a more intimate way.

Consider finding a spiritual mentor or accountability partner to help guide you in your relationship with God.

Journal

Take time to reflect on your relationship with God and ask yourself if you are truly seeking to know Him on a deeper level.

Chapter 4

Trusting  God

Trusting God is a vital part of experiencing Him. We must trust that God is in control of our lives and has a plan for us. We can trust God because He is faithful and trustworthy. Even when things seem uncertain or difficult, we can trust that God is with us and will never leave us.

As Christians, we understand that trusting God is a vital part of experiencing Him. We believe that God is in control of our lives and has a plan for us, and we must trust Him completely.

Trusting God means believing that He is faithful and trustworthy. We can trust God because He has proven Himself to be faithful throughout history. He has fulfilled His promises to His people, and He has demonstrated His love and mercy time and time again. We can also trust God because He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His character is unchanging, and He will never let us down.

Trusting God can be challenging, especially when things seem uncertain or difficult. But we can take comfort in the fact that God is with us always, even in the midst of our struggles. We can trust that He has a plan for our lives, and that His plan is good and perfect. We may not always understand what God is doing, but we can trust that He knows what is best for us.

Trusting God also means surrendering our own desires and plans to Him. We must be willing to let go of our own agenda and submit to His will. This can be difficult, as we often want to control our own lives. But when we trust God and surrender to His plan, we can experience a peace that surpasses all understanding.

Trusting God is a vital part of experiencing Him. We must trust that God is in control of our lives and has a plan for us. We can trust God because He is faithful and trustworthy. Even when things seem uncertain or difficult, we can trust that God is with us and will never leave us. When we surrender to His will and trust Him completely, we can experience a deep and abiding peace.

Biblical Example

One Biblical example of trusting God can be found in the story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22. God had promised Abraham that he would become the father of many nations, and Isaac was the son through whom this promise would be fulfilled. However, God tested Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice Isaac as a burnt offering.

Abraham trusted God and obeyed His command, taking Isaac to the mountain where he was to be sacrificed. As they climbed the mountain, Isaac asked his father where the lamb for the burnt offering was, to which Abraham replied that God would provide it.

When they reached the designated spot, Abraham built an altar and bound Isaac to it. Just as he was about to sacrifice his son, an angel of the Lord stopped him and provided a ram caught in a nearby thicket for the offering.

Abraham's faith and trust in God were evident in this story. He was willing to surrender his own desires and plans, even when it seemed to go against what God had promised. He trusted that God had a plan, and that His plan was good and perfect. As a result, he was blessed by God and his faith was counted to him as righteousness.

Practical Application

Take practical steps to trust God more fully, such as surrendering your fears and anxieties to Him in prayer.

Look for examples of God's faithfulness in your life and the lives of those around you, and meditate on them daily.

Journal

Reflect on areas in your life where you may struggle to trust God.

Chapter 5

Obeying  God

Obedience is another crucial aspect of experiencing God. We must obey God's commands as they are given to us in the Bible. God's commands are not burdensome but are meant for our good. When we obey God, we demonstrate our love for Him and our trust in Him.

As Christians, we believe that obeying God is an essential aspect of experiencing Him. God's commands are given to us in the Bible, and we are called to follow them.

Obedience to God's commands is not a burden, but rather a privilege. When we obey God, we demonstrate our love for Him and our trust in Him. We understand that God's commands are meant for our good, and they are given to us to protect us from harm and to guide us in the right path.

Obedience to God requires humility and submission. We must recognize that God is the ultimate authority, and His ways are higher than our ways. We must be willing to lay down our own desires and plans and submit to His will. This can be challenging, as we often want to do things our way. But when we obey God, we experience the peace and blessings that come from living in alignment with His will.

Obedience to God also involves repentance and forgiveness. When we disobey God, we must confess our sins and ask for His forgiveness. We must turn away from our sinful ways and strive to live in obedience to God's commands. When we repent and seek forgiveness, we experience the grace and mercy of God.

Obeying God is a crucial aspect of experiencing Him. We must obey His commands as they are given to us in the Bible. Obedience is not a burden, but a privilege that demonstrates our love and trust in God. When we obey God, we experience His peace and blessings, and we grow closer to Him.

Biblical Example

One Biblical example of obeying God is found in the story of Noah in Genesis chapter 6-9. God commanded Noah to build an ark and gather two of every kind of animal, as He was going to send a flood to cleanse the earth of wickedness. Despite the ridicule and disbelief of those around him, Noah obeyed God's command and built the ark. He and his family, along with the animals, were saved from the floodwaters. Through his obedience, Noah demonstrated his faith and trust in God, and God blessed him and his family with salvation.

Practical Application

Take practical steps to obey God, such as forgiving someone who has wronged you or seeking reconciliation in a broken relationship.

Look for opportunities to serve and obey God each day, even in small ways.

Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal areas of your life where you may need to obey Him more fully.

Journal

Write about these endeavors.

Chapter 6

Surrendering to  God

Surrendering to God means giving up control of our lives and submitting to His will. It is not always easy, but it is necessary for experiencing God. When we surrender to God, we acknowledge that He knows what is best for us, and we trust Him to guide us.

Surrendering to God is a crucial aspect of experiencing Him. As Christians, we believe that surrendering to God means giving up control of our lives and submitting to His will. It can be challenging, as we often want to be in control and make our own decisions. However, surrendering to God is necessary for experiencing His peace and blessings.

When we surrender to God, we acknowledge that He knows what is best for us. We trust Him to guide us and lead us in the right direction. Surrendering to God requires humility and a willingness to let go of our own desires and plans. We must be willing to lay down our own agendas and submit to His will.

Surrendering to God involves daily decisions to trust Him and follow His lead. We must seek His guidance through prayer and study of His Word. As we surrender to God, we experience the peace and joy that come from knowing that He is in control of our lives.

Surrendering to God also involves letting go of our fears and anxieties. We can trust that God is with us and will never leave us. When we surrender our fears and anxieties to Him, we experience His peace that surpasses all understanding.

Surrendering to God is essential for experiencing Him. It requires humility, trust, and a willingness to let go of our own desires and plans. When we surrender to God, we experience His peace and blessings, and we grow closer to Him.

Biblical Example

An example of surrendering to God in the Bible is the story of Abraham and Isaac. God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac as a test of his faith and obedience. Abraham could have refused or tried to negotiate with God, but instead, he surrendered to God's will and prepared to offer Isaac as a sacrifice. In the end, God provided a ram as a substitute for Isaac, and Abraham's faith was rewarded. Abraham's willingness to surrender to God's will demonstrated his deep trust and faith in God.

Practical Application

Reflect on areas of your life where you may be holding back from surrendering to God.

Spend time in prayer asking God to help you surrender all areas of your life to Him.

Take practical steps to surrender to God, such as giving generously to those in need or letting go of a personal dream or ambition.

Journal

Write about the steps you are taking and your experiences.

Chapter 7

Walking with  God

Walking with God is a daily journey. It requires us to be intentional about our relationship with Him. We must seek Him daily through prayer, Bible study, and worship. We must also listen to the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives.

As Christians, we believe that walking with God is a daily journey that requires intentional effort. Walking with God means seeking Him daily through prayer, Bible study, and worship. It also means listening to the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives.

Walking with God involves a personal relationship with Him. It is not a one-time event but a daily commitment to follow Him. We must prioritize our relationship with God by making time for Him and seeking His presence in our lives.

Prayer is a vital part of walking with God. It is our communication with Him, and it allows us to express our thoughts, feelings, and needs to Him. Through prayer, we can ask for His guidance and strength to face the challenges of life.

Bible study is another important aspect of walking with God. The Bible is God's Word to us, and it contains the wisdom and guidance we need to navigate life. By studying the Bible, we can learn more about God's character, His plan for our lives, and how to live according to His will.

Worship is also a crucial part of walking with God. When we worship God, we express our love and adoration for Him. We can worship Him through music, prayer, and service to others.

Walking with God also involves listening to the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives. The Holy Spirit guides us and empowers us to live according to God's will. We must be open to His leading and willing to follow wherever He leads us.

Walking with God is a daily journey that requires intentional effort. It involves seeking God through prayer, Bible study, and worship, and listening to the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives. By walking with God, we experience His presence, guidance, and blessings in our lives.

Biblical Example

An example of walking with God in the Bible can be seen in the life of Enoch. In Genesis 5:22-24, it says, "Enoch walked with God after he fathered Methuselah 300 years and had other sons and daughters. Thus all the days of Enoch were 365 years. Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him." Enoch had a personal relationship with God and walked with Him daily, so much so that he pleased God and was taken up to heaven without experiencing death. Enoch's example shows us that walking with God is not only possible but also pleasing to God and can lead to great blessings in our lives.

Practical Application

Spend time in prayer each day asking God to guide your steps and reveal His plan for your life.

Look for opportunities to serve others and share the love of Christ with those around you.

Ask God to give you a heart that desires to walk with Him and be obedient to His leading.

Journal

What is God revealing to you? How are you serving others and sharing the love of Christ? How is your heart changing?

Chapter 8

Ways God Reveals Himself

As a Christian, I believe that God reveals Himself to us in various ways. These include:

1. The Bible: God speaks to us through His Word, the Bible. It is His inspired and infallible Word, and it contains the wisdom and guidance we need to live according to His will. Through the Bible, we can learn more about God's character, His plan for our lives, and how to live a life that pleases Him.

2. Prayer: God also reveals Himself through prayer. Prayer is our communication with God, and it allows us to express our thoughts, feelings, and needs to Him. Through prayer, we can experience God's presence and receive His guidance and strength.

3. Creation: God reveals Himself through the beauty of creation. When we look at the world around us, we see the evidence of His power, creativity, and love. From the intricacies of a butterfly's wings to the majesty of a mountain range, creation points to the existence of a loving and powerful Creator.

4. Other people: God also reveals Himself through other people. When we see others living out their faith, serving others, and showing love and kindness, we catch a glimpse of God's character. We can also learn from others' experiences and be encouraged in our own faith journey.

5. Supernatural experiences: Finally, God may reveal Himself through supernatural experiences. These may include visions, dreams, or other unexplainable occurrences. While these experiences should always be tested against the truth of God's Word, they can be powerful reminders of God's presence and power in our lives.

God reveals Himself to us in various ways, including through His Word, prayer, creation, other people, and supernatural experiences. As Christians, we can trust in these means of revelation and seek to deepen our relationship with God through them.

Biblical Example

One Biblical example of ways in which God reveals Himself is found in Psalm 19:1-4, which says: "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.”

This passage shows that God reveals Himself through His creation. The beauty and intricacy of the natural world point to the existence of a loving and powerful Creator. As we appreciate the wonders of creation, we can see evidence of God's power, creativity, and love. This can lead us to a deeper understanding and appreciation of God and His character.

Practical Application

Spend time each day studying Scripture and reflecting on the ways in which God has revealed Himself throughout history.

Look for ways in which God is revealing Himself in your life and the lives of those around you.

Ask God to help you recognize His presence and guidance in your life.

Journal

How is God revealing Himself in your life and in the lives of those around you?

Chapter 9

Experiencing God’s Presence

Experiencing God's presence is the culmination of our journey. It is when we feel His presence in a tangible way. We can experience God's presence through worship, prayer, and being in nature. When we experience God's presence, we are reminded of His love and His power.

As a Christian, I believe that experiencing God's presence is a crucial part of our relationship with Him. It is when we feel His love and power in a tangible way that we are reminded of His presence in our lives. There are many ways in which we can experience God's presence, but some of the most common ways include worship, prayer, and being in nature.

Worship is a powerful way to experience God's presence. When we worship God, we express our love and adoration for Him. We can experience God's presence through singing, praising, and thanking Him. We can also experience His presence through the Holy Spirit's leading during worship.

Prayer is another way we can experience God's presence. When we pray, we are communicating with God and inviting Him into our lives. We can experience His presence through the peace and comfort that comes with prayer, as well as through answers to our prayers.

Being in nature is also a way we can experience God's presence. When we spend time in nature, we are reminded of God's power and majesty. We can see His handiwork in the beauty and intricacy of the natural world. We can experience His presence through the peace and calm that comes with being in nature.

Ultimately, experiencing God's presence is a gift from Him. We cannot force or manipulate it, but we can prepare ourselves to receive it. By seeking Him daily through prayer, worship, and being in nature, we can open ourselves up to experiencing God's presence in our lives.

Experiencing God is not limited to individual spiritual practices. As a Christian, I believe that we can also experience God through community and corporate worship, as well as through the study of Scripture.

Gathering together with other believers to worship God and learn from His Word can be a powerful way to experience His presence. When we come together to sing praises and pray, we are joining our hearts and voices in unity, creating an atmosphere for God to move in our midst.

Scripture is another means through which we can experience God. The Bible is not just a collection of stories and teachings, but it is God's inspired Word that reveals His character and His plan for humanity. As we read and study Scripture, we can encounter God in a deep and personal way. His Word speaks to our hearts and minds, convicting us of sin and encouraging us in our faith.

Therefore, experiencing God is not a solitary pursuit, but one that is best done in community with other believers and through the study of Scripture. By engaging in these practices, we open ourselves up to a deeper understanding and experience of God's presence in our lives.

Biblical Example

One biblical example of experiencing God's presence is Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush in Exodus 3. Moses was tending to his father-in-law's flock when he came across a burning bush that was not being consumed by the fire. As he approached the bush, God spoke to him and revealed Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses was afraid and hid his face, but God reassured him and called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Throughout this encounter, Moses experienced God's presence in a profound and life-changing way, which led to him fulfilling his calling as a leader and prophet.

Practical Application

Set aside consistent time each day to worship and pray.

Look for opportunities to spend time in nature and reflect on God's power and majesty.

Ask God to help you experience His presence in a tangible way each day.

Journal

How are you experiencing God? What has changed? What else would you like to see occur?

Chapter 10

Examples in History

There are many individuals in modern times who have reported experiencing God through prayer and reading the Bible. Here are a few examples:

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln's religious beliefs and experiences have been a topic of much discussion among historians and scholars. While Lincoln never officially joined a church or publicly declared a specific religious affiliation, his private letters and speeches suggest a deep and evolving relationship with God throughout his life.

Lincoln's early religious beliefs were influenced by his Baptist parents, but he later came to reject their Calvinist teachings and became more skeptical of organized religion. However, Lincoln's faith evolved again in the years leading up to and during the Civil War.

One of the most famous references to Lincoln's faith comes from his second inaugural address, delivered on March 4, 1865. In this speech, Lincoln referenced the Bible and spoke of his belief that the Civil War was God's punishment for the sin of slavery. He also spoke of his hope that the war would lead to a new era of national unity and reconciliation.

Another notable reference to Lincoln's faith comes from a letter he wrote to a friend in 1862, in which he discussed the importance of prayer and his belief that God was on the side of the Union in the Civil War. In the letter, Lincoln wrote,

"I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom and that of all about me seemed insufficient for the day.”

Historians have also noted that Lincoln often quoted from the Bible in his speeches and writings, and that he was known to attend church services on occasion. However, he also had a reputation for being critical of organized religion and for valuing individual conscience and reason over dogma and tradition.

In summary, while Lincoln's relationship with God and the Bible was complex and evolved throughout his life, there are several references from his own speeches and writings that suggest a deep and abiding faith in God and a belief in the power of prayer.

Allen C. Guelzo, Abraham Lincoln: Redeemer President (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1999).

Ronald C. White Jr., Lincoln's Greatest Speech: The Second Inaugural (New York: Simon & Schuster, 2002).

Mark A. Noll, The Civil War as a Theological Crisis (Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 2006).

Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa, the Catholic nun and missionary, is known for her deep faith and devotion to serving the poor. She reported experiencing a "call within a call" from God in 1946 while on a train in India, which led her to start the Missionaries of Charity.Mother Teresa wrote extensively about her faith and experiences in her personal letters and diaries, many of which were compiled and published after her death. See, for example, Mother Teresa: Come Be My Light, edited by Brian Kolodiejchuk (Doubleday, 2007).In her personal letters and diaries, Mother Teresa often described feeling a deep connection with God, and experiencing his presence in her daily life. One example of her experiencing God comes from a letter she wrote in 1953:

"Yesterday I went to the slums again. I felt a real call to join the poor, the sick, the dying. They are Jesus in disguise. I feel in me a deep love for God, a love so deep that it hurts. I have a longing to serve Him in His poor. I feel He wants me to give my life to Him in His poor. My heart tells me to say 'Yes,' but my mind is so confused. I need the light of grace to make me see clearly.”

This excerpt demonstrates Mother Teresa's belief that serving the poor was a way of serving God, and that her desire to do so was a call from God. She describes feeling a deep love for God, and a longing to serve him through her work with the poor. This is just one example of many in which Mother Teresa describes experiencing God through her faith and service.

C.S. Lewis

The British author and theologian, C.S. Lewis, underwent a profound religious conversion in the 1930s after reading the works of Christian writers like George MacDonald and G.K. Chesterton. He later wrote extensively about his faith and spiritual experiences in books like Mere Christianity and The Problem of Pain.C.S. Lewis: C.S. Lewis wrote extensively about his faith in books like Mere Christianity and Surprised by Joy, as well as in his personal letters and diaries. See, for example, The Collected Letters of C.S. Lewis, Volume 1: Family Letters, 1905-1931, edited by Walter Hooper (HarperCollins, 2004).One example of C.S. Lewis experiencing God comes from his own account of his religious conversion in Surprised by Joy. He describes how his encounter with God was unexpected and overwhelming:

"You must picture me alone in that room in Magdalen, night after night, feeling, whenever my mind lifted even for a second from my work, the steady, unrelenting approach of Him whom I so earnestly desired not to meet. That which I greatly feared had at last come upon me. In the Trinity Term of 1929 I gave in, and admitted that God was God, and knelt and prayed: perhaps, that night, the most dejected and reluctant convert in all England.”

This excerpt shows how Lewis experienced God as a powerful, overwhelming presence that he could not ignore. Despite his initial reluctance, he ultimately surrendered to the experience and found a new sense of purpose in his life. Lewis's conversion experience ultimately led him to become one of the most influential Christian writers and thinkers of the 20th century.

Billy Graham

Billy Graham, the American evangelist and preacher, is known for his passionate sermons and global ministry. He reported experiencing a religious awakening at a revival meeting in 1934, which led him to dedicate his life to spreading the Gospel.Billy Graham wrote extensively about his faith and experiences in books like Just As I Am and The Reason for My Hope, as well as in his personal letters and diaries. See, for example, Billy Graham: The Official Biography by William Martin (Zondervan, 1992).One example of Billy Graham experiencing God comes from his own account of his religious awakening at a revival meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934. He describes the experience in his autobiography, Just As I Am:

"Suddenly, the Spirit of God began to speak to my heart...I had not felt such an urge to pray in years...As I walked out into the dark night, I sensed the presence of God as I had not sensed it in months...I knew that God had something more for me.”

This excerpt demonstrates how Billy Graham felt a deep spiritual connection with God during his religious awakening. He felt a strong urge to pray and experienced a sense of God's presence that he had not felt in some time. Graham's account of this experience shows how he believed that God was communicating with him directly and guiding him towards a new path in life. This event was a turning point for Graham, leading him to dedicate his life to spreading the Gospel and evangelizing to people around the world.

Corrie Ten Boom

Corrie ten Boom was a Dutch Christian who, along with her family, helped many Jews escape the Holocaust during World War II. She reported experiencing a deepening of her faith while imprisoned in a Nazi concentration camp, where she continued to share her faith with fellow prisoners and guards.Corrie ten Boom wrote about her experiences in the concentration camp in her book The Hiding Place, which was later adapted into a film. Additionally, many of her personal letters and diaries have been compiled and published. See, for example, Corrie ten Boom's Prison Letters, edited by Carole C. Carlson (Fleming H. Revell, 1998).In her book, The Hiding Place, Corrie ten Boom writes about how her faith sustained her during her time in the concentration camp. One example of her experiencing God comes from a passage in the book where she describes a moment when she and her sister were feeling particularly despairing:

"Betsie and I lay on the platform, looking up at the dark sky and occasionally trading a comment. 'Corrie,' she said abruptly, 'do you know what hurts so very much? It's love. Love is the strongest force in the world, and when it is blocked that means pain. There are two things we can do when this happens. We can kill the love so that it stops hurting. But then of course part of us dies, too. Or, Corrie, we can ask God to open up another route for that love to travel.'

Something deep inside Betsie had stirred, too. 'There is no pit so deep that He is not deeper still. They will take away our lives, Corrie. They will take away our freedom. But they cannot take away our souls and they cannot take away our love.’"

This excerpt demonstrates how Corrie and her sister found strength and hope in their faith, even in the midst of unimaginable suffering. They turn to God for comfort and ask for his help in finding another way to express their love, rather than letting it be blocked by their circumstances. This passage shows how Corrie's faith was a source of comfort and strength, and how she experienced God's presence in her life even in the darkest of circumstances.

These are just a few examples of individuals in modern times who have reported experiencing God through prayer and reading the Bible. There are countless others, from all walks of life who have reported similar experiences.

Journal

Who in your life has impacted you, and inspired you to seek God?

How do you aspire to be remembered in terms of inspiring others to seek and know our Heavenly Abba Father?

What steps are you going to take to achieve this?

Conclusion

Experiencing God: Knowing Abba Father, is a lifelong journey. It requires us to be intentional about our relationship with Him. We must seek Him daily through prayer, Bible study, and worship. We must trust and obey Him, surrender to His will, and walk with Him daily. When we do these things, we can experience God in a more profound and meaningful way.

As Christians, we believe that God is actively involved in the world and in the lives of individuals. He desires to be known and experienced by all people, and He reveals Himself to us in various ways, including through community and corporate worship, scripture, prayer, and nature. Experiencing God's presence is the culmination of our journey, reminding us of His love and power. May this book inspire and encourage others to seek a deeper relationship with God and to experience His presence in their lives.

Practical application

Reflect on how your relationship with God has grown and deepened throughout the study.

Consider ways in which you can continue to seek God and grow in your relationship with Him.

Share your experiences with others and encourage them to seek a deeper relationship with God as well.

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Cover Photo Credit: Joshua Earle