What is the difference between someone who knows about God and someone who knows God?  What is the difference between someone who believes God exists and someone who is putting all their hope in life in believing on Jesus Christ for salvation?

I want to bring a couple things to the forefront of this conversation for our consideration.  First, is that satan, who is called the ruler of this world, knows more about God than you or I do.  satan has spoken with God in person, satan was present with Jesus, and throughout the ages has been in the presence of God.  Second is that satan probably knows more scripture and more of what Jesus has said than you do.  satan used scripture to attempt to tempt Jesus in the wilderness (Matt 4:6).

In James 2:19, we are told – “You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!”  

In Jewish culture in Biblical times, the Shema was a daily prayer commanded to be made in the morning and evening.  It followed Deuteronomy 4:6-9 and begins “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one”.  James above is referencing that common Jewish religious prayer saying that even the demons believe this.  Right belief alone then, means nothing by itself.

What separates us from the demons?  1 Peter 1:8-9 – “Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, ⁹ obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.  The demons know truth about God, but they do not submit themselves willingly to Him, nor do they love Him for who He is.  It is only the grace of God, extended to us through the blood of Jesus, that separates us.  Jesus redeemed us, and has given us a new heart that finds a joy inexpressible in knowing Him.  In knowing Him in joy, the overflow of our lives is worship and a passionate desire for others to know Him as well. 

My exhortation is to move your knowledge from your head to your heart.  Cover this in prayer, knowing that this is only possible by God working in you, but that it is God’s desire to do so.  Our lives are busy, our lives are messy, and if we do not stop and set our hearts affections on God, we can very quickly move from Him, or worse become deceived to think we know Him, when we just know about Him.  Stay encouraged where God has you today, and know that He is able and wanting to meet you wherever you are.

Grace and Peace,

Adam