Step 1 - Intimacy

Step 1: Intimacy with God – The Heart of Christian Life

Key Verse:"Come near to God and He will come near to you." (James 4:8)

Christian life is not just about following rules or doing good deeds. At the center of it all is our relationship with God. Without intimacy, our faith becomes empty, and our works lose meaning. God longs for a close and deep relationship with us, and it is up to us to seek Him actively. Imagine a couple whose relationship is reduced to daily obligations—working to pay bills, taking care of the children, etc.—but they never set aside time for each other. A time to rekindle the passion that brought them together, to celebrate their intimacy. Over time, they will inevitably grow apart, no longer united as one, but living separate, parallel lives. We often do something similar in our spiritual journey.

Why does this happen?

Intimacy requires a willingness to expose oneself to the other. In this case, not to just anyone, but to God, who sees our innermost being and from whom we can hide nothing. This can be deeply uncomfortable because we are sinners, and His light exposes our sin. The desire to walk with God results from a heart willing to be transformed by His presence. Those who love sin will never seek to draw near to God's presence. We may have our flaws and limitations, but we must learn from the psalmist to delight in God and His Law. In particular, he teaches us something precious about intimacy with the Lord.

"The LORD confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them" (Psalm 25:14 - NIV)

or

"The secret of the LORD is with those who fear Him, and He will show them His covenant" (Psalm 25:14 - NKJV)

Psalm 25:14 reveals a profound aspect of the relationship between God and those who fear Him. The word "intimacy" (or "secrets," depending on the translation) comes from the Hebrew "sod" (סוֹד), which refers to a close circle of trust where secrets are shared. This shows us that God is not distant or indifferent; He desires to share with us the mysteries of His heart and the details of His covenant. In the biblical context, "fearing God" does not mean being afraid, but rather having reverence, respect, and a life aligned with His will. When we live in this fear, we enter a place of intimacy where God reveals His purposes and invites us to be part of His plans. It’s like a friend who shares his deepest secrets with someone he fully trusts.

How to Cultivate Intimacy with God?

Below are suggestions for practical devotional actions to achieve the intimacy we have described:

• Daily Prayer – Talk to God every day. It doesn’t have to be complicated; speak to Him like a friend.

• Reading the Bible – God’s Word is alive and guides us in every aspect of life.

• Worship – Sing, praise, and exalt God, even in difficult moments.

• Silence to Listen – Give space for God to speak to your heart.

Practical Example: Jesus showed us the importance of intimacy with the Father by frequently withdrawing to pray:"But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed." (Luke 5:16)

Reflection Question: What will you sacrifice to have more time with God?

Final Prayer: Lord, I long to feel Your presence in a real and tangible way. Help me to seek You daily and to prioritize my relationship with You above all else. Amen.