Read with me, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8

Do you hear yourself say, “I knew it,” when bad things happen? What is it that you think you know? Did you consider that fact that you might be wrong?  This has much to do with where our focus is. What we ponder on, accept as truth, and know becomes our reality. If we constantly think we are failures, we end up failing at most things we do. If we are constantly aware of what we do wrong, more often than not it becomes impossible to quit the very thing we feel we are offending in. If we can only remember that He has not dealt with is according to our sins. There is a better way to conduct our lives than running around like a headless chicken trying to avoid the landmines of self sabotage. There is a way that involves peace, and no torment, no shame and no displacement from your purpose. This is facilitated by knowing Him. Be made free as you call to mind who He is.

There are different ways of interpreting the word ‘knowledge.’ One definition denotes facts and information gained by study, and another refers to the understanding and familiarity that comes from practical implementation. Just so, the Scriptures can be studied to gain rather comprehensive insights into the life of Jesus and nature of God while there exists a vast well of truths we can mine interacting with the Person. There is a significant knowing that comes from spending time with Him.  This is how we turn theoretical knowledge into practical knowledge- we practice. It is our faith that leads to action. Some practical ways to know Him include:

1. Pray, making sure you are intentionally engaging His heart, not just doing lip service.
2. Engage His heart – wait for an answer or response. In your heart allow Him to do what He wants to do.
3. Meditate – think on His word during the day.
4. Believe what He promised.
5. Do not relent, do not give up on the promises He has made.
6. Search the scriptures to get to know Him, and then put your hope in His goodness of character.
7. Follow where He leads- allow the word and the Spirit to direct your steps.
8. Love Him back. Tell Him you love Him, worship, and serve His people.

Knowledge is also defined as awareness of a fact. Knowing Him is also being aware of Him, His goodness, mercy, kindness. Knowing Him often requires you to acknowledge His goodness as a fact. When doubt comes knocking and circumstances pummel you, consider the fact that He is for you and that victory is yours. Even if the last shred of your hope is anchored in the knowing that He is good, hold on to that and proclaim it. Allow your heart to accept Him as factually loving and willing to aid. When we consider first what is pure and holy, we yield no ground to the enemy. When we know and believe it a truth that He is a good Father we do not relent our hold on hope. This strategy trumps the lies of the enemy and renders them ineffective at stealing our joy and hope.  Know the truth, meditate on it, believe it, and abide in the word.  Set your mind on Him.

John 8:32 says then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. Notice, he emphasizes, not reading, but knowing the truth in order to obtain freedom. There is an exchange with the heart of God that redeems us from law and death. There is interaction of heart and truth that eliminates the lies of insufficiency and anchors our souls in the firm foundation that is His redemption. Forget not His benefits, but bless Him. Know it is He who forgives, who heals, who redeems you, and crowns you with loving-kindness and mercy, the one who satisfies you and renews your youth. He has not dealt with us according to our sin! Know this, He is gracious and merciful!