Understanding the Difference Between Knowing and Knowing About
Many people talk about knowing God, but if we’re honest, most of us only know about God. There’s a big difference. Knowing God means having a real and close relationship with Him, not just knowing facts or stories. It means your life changes because of your experience with God, and you see everything differently—even struggles and disappointments.
Some people, like the scholar in the story, have paid a price for standing up for the truth about God. Even when it means losing something important, they don’t regret it because truly knowing God is worth more than anything else they could have gained.
Paul, a well-known figure in the Bible, said he lost everything for the sake of knowing Jesus, and he didn’t miss what he’d left behind. He saw all his losses as nothing compared to the value of knowing God. People like Paul don’t waste time wishing for things they don’t have. Instead, they focus on what they’ve gained—a deep, joyful connection to God.
Often, though, we settle for knowing about God. We read books, join Bible studies, and learn all the right answers. People might even look up to us for our knowledge. But being an expert doesn’t mean we actually know God personally. It’s possible to know lots about godly living, hear many sermons, read Christian books, and still miss the real relationship with God.
So, the big question is: Can we honestly say that we have known God—not just as something we’re supposed to say, but as something truly real in our lives? If we’re not sure, maybe it’s time to think about whether we’re focusing on knowing God, or just knowing about Him.
The real mark of those who know God is joy, freedom, and the ability to see disappointments as unimportant compared to their relationship with Him. That’s what we should seek—not just more knowledge, but a living experience with God that changes our hearts and our lives.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 