Do you yearn to know God? Do you long for a special relationship with the Father, the intimate knowing that comes from interacting with Him as His child?

The stronger we grow as Christians, the closer we grow to God. As the New Testament says, we “grow in grace, and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

But how do we get to know God better? First, we spend time with Him. Every relationship grows with time and tender care, including a relationship with God. In the psalms we read, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Yet achieving this stillness is difficult. Noise and diversion constantly bombard us; we struggle to have quiet time alone with God. But if we want to know Him better, we have to discipline ourselves to carve out quiet time and space to be with God. And as we fall silent, we can hear God speak to us about His nature.

We can also grow closer to the Father by obeying His commands. Scripture tells us that we’ll know God better as we follow His instructions. We can’t grow closer to Christ while knowingly living in disobedience. If you want to know Him, obey Him in everything.

We also learn more about God by loving Him. The Bible says, “Everyone who loves is born of God and knows God … for God is love” (1 John 4:7–8). Christ laid down His life on the cross for us, and in return we need to love Him sacrificially, laying down our lives for God, submitting our will for His glory. As we do this, we discover more about God’s sovereignty and love.

Does your soul pant for a more intimate relationship with God? Then spend time with Him this very moment, in His word, in a quiet place. Choose to live obediently, and focus your love on Him. Do so, and you’ll come to know Him who loves you with a love far beyond anything humans can offer. You’ll find the fulfillment of your heart’s desire.