But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. – Matthew 6:33
God Revealed in Creation
As we look around at the beauty of the world, we see evidence of God’s presence. The stunning landscapes, the intricate designs of nature, and the vast cosmos all reflect God’s handiwork. In this way, creation reveals God’s glory to us and allows us to experience His power and majesty. We find in the book of Psalms, for instance, expressions of awe and wonder as the psalmist meditates on the works of God. Every sunrise and sunset is a reminder of His faithfulness and craftsmanship. When we take the time to observe the creation around us, we can connect with God on a deeper level. It invites us into communion with Him, urging us to acknowledge His greatness.
Psalm 19:1
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. – Psalm 19:1
Romans 1:20
For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. – Romans 1:20
Psalm 8:3-4
When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them? Human beings that you care for them? – Psalm 8:3-4
Genesis 1:31
God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day. – Genesis 1:31
Isaiah 40:26
Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing. – Isaiah 40:26
Experiencing God Through Prayer
Prayer is our lifeline to God, allowing us to communicate with Him. Through prayer, we cultivate a relationship with our Creator that is intimate and personal. When we pray, we open our hearts to God’s presence, making space for His guidance, comfort, and wisdom. The scriptures urge us to pray with confidence, knowing that God hears us. Whether we’re seeking answers, expressing our gratitude, or asking for help, prayer deepens our experience of who God is. We can feel His listening ear and loving responses each time we come before Him, fostering a connection that can transform our lives.
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Matthew 7:7
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. – Matthew 7:7
James 4:8
Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. – James 4:8
Mark 11:24
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. – Mark 11:24
Experiencing God in Worship
Worship serves as a powerful avenue for experiencing God. When we gather together as believers or worship in our personal spaces, we create an atmosphere where we can encounter His presence. Through worship, we express our love, gratitude, and adoration to God, reminding ourselves of who He is. We can feel a stirring in our spirits, a sense of His closeness, and a depth of joy that comes from engaging in this holy act. The scriptures lift our spirits and invite us to join in celebrating the goodness and greatness of our God through song and praise.
Psalm 95:1-2
Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. – Psalm 95:1-2
John 4:24
God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth. – John 4:24
Psalm 100:2
Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. – Psalm 100:2
Colossians 3:16
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. – Colossians 3:16
Ephesians 5:19
Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord. – Ephesians 5:19
God’s Presence in Trials
Experiencing God often happens in times of trials and difficulties. It is in our struggles that we can feel God’s comforting hand guiding us through. When we face challenges, we find reassurance in His promises and strength like never before. The Scriptures remind us that even in the darkest valleys, God walks alongside us. Our faith can grow stronger in these moments, as we learn to trust Him more deeply. God uses these experiences to draw us closer to Him so we can truly sense His presence and become resilient in our faith journey.
2 Corinthians 12:9
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Psalm 23:4
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. – Psalm 23:4
Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10
James 1:2-3
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. – James 1:2-3
Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. – Romans 8:28
God’s Word as a Source of Experience
Scripture is a powerful means through which we can experience God. The insights and wisdom contained in the Bible are practical for our daily lives. As we absorb God’s Word, we encounter His teachings and discover His heart. The more we read and meditate on scripture, the more we can see God at work in the world around us. The stories and teachings provide inspiration and encouragement, guiding us to know Him better. God’s promises bring hope, and we find a sense of peace and purpose in our lives as we rely on His Word.
Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. – Psalm 119:105
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. – Hebrews 4:12
John 1:1
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. – John 1:1
Psalm 19:7-8
The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. – Psalm 19:7-8
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
God’s Love and Compassion
Experiencing the love and compassion of God is transformative. When we realize how deeply He cares for us, it impacts how we see ourselves and relate to others. God’s love is unconditional and rich, reaching out to everyone regardless of their past. In moments of doubt and despair, we can find refuge in the truth of His compassionate nature. Learning to reflect God’s love through our actions can create a beautiful cycle of experience and response. We can draw others in by showing the love we have experienced through Him.
John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. – John 3:16
1 John 4:9-10
This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. – 1 John 4:9-10
Psalms 103:8
The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. – Psalm 103:8
Ephesians 2:4-5
But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. – Ephesians 2:4-5
Romans 5:8
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8
Sharing Our Experiences with Others
Our experiences of God are powerful testimonies that can inspire others. When we share how we have seen God at work in our lives, we invite others to consider a relationship with Him. Our stories of faith, hope, and transformation act as encouragement for those seeking answers or assurance. Encouraging one another and sharing our experiences not only strengthens our community but also spreads the good news. We never know how sharing our experiences may touch someone else’s heart and lead them to seek an encounter with God themselves.
Psalm 105:1
Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. – Psalm 105:1
Revelation 12:11
They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. – Revelation 12:11
2 Corinthians 1:4
Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble, with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. – 2 Corinthians 1:4
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
1 Peter 3:15
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. – 1 Peter 3:15
Final Thoughts
Experiencing God can take many forms, from our daily walks in nature showcasing His creation to deep moments of prayer and worship. Through trials and God’s Word, we encounter His loving presence and the depths of His compassion. Our experiences don’t just enrich our faith; they also serve as a testimony to inspire those around us. Together, we can embrace a journey of faith marked by genuine encounters with God, drawing us closer to Him and to one another.
Let’s remember that we are all on this journey of faith together. Encouraging one another, sharing our victories and challenges, and inviting others to experience the richness of God’s love leads to a stronger community of believers. You might also explore topics such as longing for God or learning about God to deepen our connection and understanding further.