I’ve blogged about identity and purpose being a major theme of the book. And if only we could grasp the depth of meaning it brings to our life to embrace what God has for us in both of those, we would be grateful.
But I was reminded by a friend that what “cements” these things in our mind and heart, so that we are more than grateful, we are forever changed, is encounter.
We need to encounter the love of God, the power of Him adopting us as sons, and the price of our redemption.
Let’s consider some Scriptural examples.
Abraham in Genesis 12-18
Jacob in Genesis 28
Moses in Exodus 3
David in 1 Samuel 16
Mary in Luke 1
Stephen in Acts 7
Saul/Paul in Acts 9
The experience of hearing from God changed them. It was more than knowing God had called them to a special purpose, and a special person in His plan. They had encountered the glory and power of God for themselves, and they were motivated to follow what He told them to do.
I am reminded that if I hear the Shepherd’s voice as I am meant to do, then questions of my identity and purpose fade away. Jesus says My sheep hear My voice, I know them, and they follow me (John 10:27).
When I realize that the situation in Eden was that men heard God’s voice, because He walked with Adam and Eve in the cool of the day, and that Jesus affirms that in Himself, the good shepherd, we hear God’s voice, then we realize that “encounter” with God is not only possible today, but expected. The chance for encounter is part of the inheritance which Jesus’ redemption of mankind restored.
Then we can understand prayers like Paul’s for believers.
Ephesians 3:18-20 TPT
“Then you will be empowered to discover what every holy one experiences—the great magnitude of the astonishing love of Christ in all its dimensions. How deeply intimate and far-reaching is his love! How enduring and inclusive it is! Endless love beyond measurement that transcends our understanding—this extravagant love pours into you until you are filled to overflowing with the fullness of God! Never doubt God’s mighty power to work in you and accomplish all this. He will achieve infinitely more than your greatest request, your most unbelievable dream, and exceed your wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for his miraculous power constantly energizes you.”
Amen! Let’s pray that we may know (experience, encounter) this love and power!
