Philippians 3:10-11

Ben Doggett reflects on what relationship and knowing Jesus means.

Ben Doggett

I know of lots of people. I know of Usain Bolt; he's that guy who runs just a tiny bit faster than me. I know of Taylor Swift; she's that lady who sings those songs I secretly quite like. I also know of Donald Trump; he's that guy who has one of the most iconic hairstyles of the 21st century.

I also know of God. The question I'm challenged with at the moment is whether it goes beyond that? Do I 'know of' Him or do I 'know' Him?

I know my wife. Once upon a time I only knew of her, but then I mysteriously convinced her to spend more time with me and ultimately say yes to marry me. Over the past few years she's got to know the good, the bad and the ugly of my life. She's also given me the opportunity to get to know her in a deep way too.

And so I think again about my relationship with God. I'm convinced now more than ever that He's worth getting to know. I was once told, "If you haven't suffered yet in life, then you just haven't lived long enough!" On face value it can seem like a fairly morbid thought, but in a way it sums up our human existence!

I'm by no means ancient, but I've been around on earth long enough to know that life can be rough and that I have a deep need to know Him. He brings meaning to my life, comfort in my distress, purpose to my steps and fulfilment to my ache for acceptance.

The apostle Paul expressed his desire like this:

'I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!' (Philippians 3:10-11)

For someone as experienced, knowledgeable and well-travelled as Paul, to express this sentiment speaks volumes to me. I too want to know Christ and have reminded myself of those words of Paul on many occasions, but it's the latter part of that quote that's been standing out to me recently.

Paul says that he wants to know the 'mighty power that raised Him (Jesus) from the dead'. It's the part of the verse that I've skated over on a number of occasions. But now it strikes me how significant that power is in my life.

There is a here and now element to that verse that I find so exciting! God's resurrection power is one that brings dead things back to life. Through life's highs and lows, as well as my own foolishness, I've picked up various bumps and bruises. There are areas in my life that need His power, which can bring what has died back to life! He renews my enthusiasm, optimism, hope, peace and brings me a cherished freedom!

I praise my God that not only do I have the privilege to personally know the creator of the universe, but I can also benefit from His power that brings life from the ashes.

I pray that He would amaze you afresh as you continue to get to know the One whom is worth knowing beyond all else!