It was paradise. Really. Beautiful trees, fruit on the ground and a running stream with waterfalls. For our 20th anniversary my wife and I celebrated by hiking the Iao Needle in Maui. We walked with each other, sharing adventures born out of decades of being together. She is my best friend and life partner.
In ancient times there was another couple who walked in Paradise. Everything was pristine, rivers running, fruit trees everywhere. And they had intimate fellowship with one another… and with God. In the story of Genesis Adam and Eve walked with God in the Garden of Eden. And that relationship is available today. Actually it is expected and even desired by God for us.
So what does it mean to walk with God?
It is coupling an ordinary experience with an extraordinary entity. God Most High chooses to be with you. It is kind of like dancing with the stars (the celestial fireball stars). But it is more of an intimate and powerful affair. Here is how it works.
Be with God
God desires to be in relationship with us today. It is more than just conversation. It is presence. When I sit with my wife looking at a glorious sunset words cannot contain the moment. It is a shared story.
Being there is so vital in any relationship. We need to create stories with God. Taking time to dwell on God and allowing God into our whole lives. Realizing that God is with us in all that we do and wherever we are. Ask God to surprise you to show you His wonder.
Listen to God
He is calling to us and speaking. But rarely we listen. Chris Brown, one of the lead pastors at the church I attend gives this example. There is music playing everywhere that we cannot hear. Multitudes of songs are captured in the air. We just need to be tuned into the right frequency to hear it. That is the way God speaks. I find in my life that I am better able to focus on his voice when I am in the wilderness taking a hike or going hunting. I sense God speaking to me and I am in conversation with Him.
When do you hear God’s voice? Reading His Word, being with other believers or just getting away are all ways to listen to Him. It is yours to discover how best to communicate with God.
Partner with God
Walking with God is the realization that God is working with us. He sends us out as His ambassadors to share His love and story. He shows us how to better love those around us and bring them into a shared story with Him. He loves our creativity and diligence. And He has a vested interest in our success. Jesus said to go and make disciples and that He would be with us always. The Holy Spirit is inside of those who accept Him and gives guidance and counsel. We choose to work with Him and rely on His supernatural strength in our everyday circumstances.
Are you living life without His power? That is your choice. He is giving you the chance for abundant life now and an incredible eternity hereafter. You can choose this life today. It will cost you all you have and be worth it. So take a step. And walk with God.
