By Clara Meier

“Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesare′a Philippi, he asked his disciples, ‘Who do men say that the Son of man is?'” ~Matthew 16:13

When Jesus asked this question of His disciples, listening to their answer was very important to Him. Though the disciples gave Him “hearsay” answers, Peter very boldly spoke out. And Jesus confirmed that answer as correct, also noting that Peter had heard the answer from God the Father in heaven. Peter didn’t follow the crowd; he stated what he knew to be true. In stating that Jesus was the “son of the living God,” he was proclaiming relationship with God the Father. Peter already knew he had a relationship with Jesus, with whom he had spent the last three years. Jesus gave Peter the opportunity to announce this relationship to the others, so that they would understand that their time with Jesus had been well spent.

What is your relationship with God like?

It is very beautiful that we can also have a relationship with Jesus, the “son of the living God.” It is sometimes unfathomable that God wants a relationship with each one of us! The relationship is as real as the relationship with a sibling, or a spouse, or the neighbor next door. If you allow this relationship to grow, you can have conversation with the Father, a two-way dialogue about your very own life!

How do you explain God to others?

If someone were to ask you who you say He is, what would be your response? Have you ever been told to prepare an “elevator speech” to explain your relationship with Him? (The elevator speech: Not so long that the listener’s eyes glaze over, but interesting enough that the listener wishes the ride were just a little bit longer.) 

Do you remember answering that question for the first time? What did you say? Has your relationship with Christ grown since then? Could you say it better now than you did that first time? I know I could! 

Strengthening your relationship

Like any relationship, your relationship with God takes work. Spend time with Him alone, in front of the tabernacle. Read Scripture, and don’t be afraid to write in your Bible! It is important to spend time with those who also have a relationship with God. Listen to media that talks about God. Read about God. Eliminate things in your life that prevent you from being close to God. The work is worth it!

Prayer:

Father in heaven, thank You for being present with me in everything I do. Please continue to guide me in Your ways, and help me to introduce You to others, especially those who do not believe. Help me model for others what a relationship with You looks like.

Call to Action:

Make time to talk to God every day. And then listen! Carry a journal to capture the moments! (Waiting until you get home at night may cause you to lose the thought!) Look for God in everyone you meet and the situations you encounter, and write them down.

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