Deepening Your Faith: Steps to Growing Closer to God

Exploring the depths of your faith and growing closer to God requires a genuine understanding of the essence of His love and His commandments. This journey begins with delving into what love truly means, moving beyond physical expressions and selfish desires to the divine love that flows from the heart of God.

Understanding the Promised One and Justice

“O SON OF SPIRIT! The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice turn not away therefrom if thou desirest Me and neglect it not that I may confide in thee.” - Baha’u’llah

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice as a guiding principle in our lives. It is through justice, or righteousness, that we can truly see God and understand His love. It is a testament to the fact that genuine connection with God requires more than just religious knowledge; it necessitates a commitment to living a just and virtuous life.

The Revelation of Love

Another profound expression of God’s love for humanity comes from the Arabic Hidden Words, specifically number 3:

“O SON OF MAN! Veiled in My immemorial being and in the ancient eternity of My essence I knew My love for thee therefore I created thee have engraved on thee My image and revealed to thee My beauty.” - Baha’u’llah

This verse underscores the eternal and unchanging nature of God’s love, which transcends time and understanding. Living in accordance with this love is a fundamental aspect of spiritual growth.

Practical Steps to Deepen Your Faith

There are several practical steps you can take to grow closer to God:

Cowていn the Bible: Reading the Bible and studying its sacred texts can provide profound insights into God's character and will. The Bible is rich in teachings that can guide you on your spiritual journey. Attend Church Services: Participating in church services and communions can provide a communal and spiritual atmosphere that supports your faith. Join Bible Study Groups: Joining a Bible study class can offer a deeper understanding of the Scriptures, as well as the opportunity to discuss faith and teachings with others. Prayer: Regular prayer helps build a personal and tangible relationship with God. It can also bring clarity and strength in difficult times. Accept Jesus as Your Savior: Believing that Jesus is the Son of God and accepting Him as your personal savior can transform your relationship with God and lead to a more fulfilling life.

Obeying God’s Commandments

One of the most important steps in growing closer to God is obedience to His commandments. According to the Scriptures, obedience is key to truly knowing God. For example, 1 John 2:4 states: “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”

This verse underscores the importance of aligning one’s life with God's will and commandments. The New Testament, particularly the book of Acts, emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers: ‘Acts 5:32: And we are His witnesses of these things, and so is also the Holy Ghost whom God hath given to them that obey Him.’

Historical Context and the 12 Tribes

The historical context of the 12 tribes of Israel is also important to understand. The original tribes were scattered throughout different nations, and understanding this dispersion sheds light on the exclusivity and universality of God's commandments. Psalms 147:19-20 offer insight into this:

"He sheweth his word unto Jacob, his statutes and his judgments unto Israel. He hath not dealt so with any nation: and as for his judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the Lord."

This verse highlights that the teachings of God are specifically aimed at the descendants of Jacob, now known as Israelites, and not every nation. This exclusivity is further emphasized in passages such as Deuteronomy 29:1 and Malachi 4:4.

Conclusion

Growing closer to God requires a deep sense of love, justice, and obedience. By delving into the meanings and commandments as revealed in the Bible, and by living according to them, you can deepen your faith and connection with God. Remember, the key is not just knowledge, but a genuine commitment to follow God's path and principles in your daily life.