I woke up this morning with the word "relationship" on my heart. So I asked God, my Father, what he wanted me to do with this word. He instructed me to write about having a true relationship with him; not a prayer life of ask God for help, bring him all your troubles and hope for the best.
A few years back, I went on my first prayer and fasting retreat. Having grown up in a church where church was the the reason for church, I had learned nothing of fasting. My new church, however, encouraged it for a healthy spiritual life. So I went.
The Holy Spirit's presence came upon me that first night. He brought to light a sin in my heart that I wasn't even aware was there; it hurt to have this exposed. However, because God is good and loves us so much, he healed the wound. I spent the rest of the night sleeping in his presence.
The next morning I awoke feeling more refreshed than I had in a very long time. I got dressed and went out side to where two horses were grazing in a field. I did so because I like horses. Not wanting to scare them off and hoping I would be able to pet one, I approached the horses in a rather timid manner. As I would try to get within petting distance of the closest horse, the horse would move away from me; just out of reach. I tried this several times with no success. I was going to try one more time when the Lord spoke to me; instructing me to approach the horse boldly.
I did so, and to my surprise, the horse didn't move. Then the Lord told me that I was to come to him with boldness when I pray. (Heb. 4:16) I then tried the same thing with the other horse and he fled. Then the Lord spoke to my spirit saying "Boldly stand up to Satan and he will flee from you." (James 4:7)
This was the beginning of a walk with the Lord which, I later learned, most Christians don't enjoy. This type of relationship is supposed to be the usual, not the unusual, for Christians. It is only through this type of relationship that we can experience lasting joy and freedom. God wants to be an intimate part of our lives; instructing us and using us for His glory.
For more on this kind of relationship read "Walking With God" by John Eldredge.
