A Personal Communion: Walking with God — by Marc MacArthur

This article is inspired by a Ministry message delivered by Peter Ramsay
in the O’Leary Gospel Hall on September 14, 2023

Genesis 5:24
[24] And Enoch walked with God…

Enoch’s extraordinary walk with God, told in the pages of Genesis, continues to resonate across the ages, leaving a mark on the hearts of believers. As we delve into the profound implications of walking with God, we embark on a journey that unfolds beyond that of public displays, calling us into the quiet, intimate spaces of personal communion with the Lord.

The apostle Paul’s address in Philippians 2:12 takes on a profound significance when contemplating the essence of walking with God. He urges believers to:

Philippians 2:12
[12] …work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

This is more than a mere call to action; it is an invitation to engage in a deeply personal and intentional relationship with the divine. Walking with God becomes a commitment that extends beyond that of religious gatherings and practices.

We must examine the potential mechanization that can enter our spiritual endeavors. Like the poetic wisdom found in Psalm 1:2, which paints a vivid picture of the blessedness. 

Psalm 1:2
[2] But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

The call to meditate implies not just casual contemplation but a deliberate and continuous communion with God, through His Word.

In the ebb and flow of spiritual experiences we find the changing reality of the Christian journey. Romans 12:11 encapsulates this truth as it encourages believers to:

Romans 12:11
[11] …fervent in spirit; serving the Lord

This fervency is a constant, whether we soar in the heights of love for the Lord or navigating the routine of spiritual exercises. It underlines the necessity of persistence in devotion, reminding us that our journey of walking with God is not defined just by its highs but also the steady rhythm of our commitment.

The heart of walking with God lies in our personal communion.

James 4:8
[8] Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you…

This sentiment beckons believers to “draw near to God,” with the promise that He will reciprocate. This reciprocal relationship requires intentional effort, an acknowledgment that walking with God is an interaction that demands our dedication. It calls us to cultivate a continuous awareness of God’s presence in our lives, whether in moments of solitude or in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Psalm 19:14
[14] Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

Here the psalmist’s words extend beyond formal prayers. It encapsulates the idea that every moment, whether on a tranquil beach or during a leisurely stroll, can be a backdrop for our communion with the divine. Walking with God becomes a fluid, continuous conversation rather than a compartmentalized aspect of our lives.

Hebrews 13:15
[15] By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

The sacrifice of praise becomes a poignant expression of walking with God. This sacrifice is not confined to the praise of public gatherings; it extends into the private areas of our hearts. As we reflect on God’s goodness, acknowledging His presence and expressing gratitude, we engage in an act of communion. Hebrews 13:15 reinforces the idea that our praise is not contingent on circumstances but is a continual offering from our lips, giving thanks to His name.

Each believer’s walk is a unique experience of personal encounters, struggles, and victories. The Bible, our guide on this journey, provides stories and teachings that show various facets of walking with God.

Consider Abraham, referred to as the “friend of God”. His journey was marked by a profound trust. Abraham’s walk with God was characterized by unwavering faith, and it serves as inspiration for believers navigating the unpredictable paths of life.

David, described as a man after God’s own heart, offers a poetic expression of walking with God. His writings cover a range of human emotions, from deep despair to exuberant praise.

Psalm 23:1,4
[1] The Lord is my shepherd…
[4] …for thou art with me…

David paints a picture of God as the Shepherd guiding him through the valleys and pastures of life. This highlights the comforting companionship of walking with God.

1 John 1:3
[3] That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.

The apostle John shares insights into the nature of fellowship with God. John emphasizes the communal aspect of walking with God, inviting believers into a shared experience of fellowship.

Walking with God involves trust, obedience, and a willingness to navigate the landscapes of life in companionship with the Creator. The potential mechanization of our spiritual practices requires careful consideration. It is too easy to slip into routines that lack a genuine connection with God. The Bible warns against mere outward rituals devoid of heartfelt devotion.

Isaiah 29:13
[13] …this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me…

These words serve as a reminder that walking with God is not just a performance; it requires the engagement of our hearts.

Enoch’s walk with God, Abraham’s journey of faith, David’s poetic expressions, and John’s emphasis on fellowship all expand our understanding of what it means to walk with God. It is an invitation to personal communion, a dedication to the daily seeking of His presence, meditating on His Word, and offering a sacrifice of praise. May our hearts be stirred by each moment of communion with the Lord, a journey that turns the routine into an intimate walk. A walk not confined to specific moments but spreads through every aspect of our lives, shaping our thoughts, words, and actions.

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