Why Our Relationship with God Requires More Than Just Belief
Sometimes, without even realizing it, we treat God as if He’s just an abstract idea or a distant force with no real expectations for us. It’s almost like imagining God as a concept—something we think about when life gets tough, or when we need comfort, but not someone who actively cares about how we live day to day.
But if we look closer, most faith traditions teach that God isn’t just “out there” somewhere, detached from our lives. Instead, they describe God as deeply personal—a being who wants a genuine relationship with us. And just like any relationship, this one comes with certain expectations. It’s not just about believing that God exists; it’s also about understanding that He has given us guidelines, or commandments, to help us live better lives.
God Isn’t Just a Concept
Think about the relationships in your life. If you want a real connection with someone, you spend time with them, listen to them, and try to understand what matters to them. In the same way, relating to God isn’t just about thinking nice thoughts or saying a prayer when we need something. It’s about making an effort to know Him and to follow what He asks of us.
Why Commandments Matter
Commandments or moral guidelines aren’t there to make our lives harder or to control us. They’re meant to help us live in a way that’s good for us and for others. When we ignore these, treating God like He doesn’t really care how we act, we miss out on the deeper purpose and joy that comes from living with intention.
Taking God Seriously in Everyday Life
So, next time you think about God, try to remember that He’s not just a distant presence. He’s someone who wants to be involved in your life, who asks you to trust Him, and who gives you principles to live by. The relationship gets richer when we stop treating God as an abstract being and start engaging with Him as someone who truly matters—and who has real expectations for how we live.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025