You have a calling that spans an array of engagement with God. Your entrance into His family placed you at the centre of His affections, and connected you vitally to His Kingdom.
Both of these wings of ministry must be exercised to fully enjoy the benefits of prayer.
I think that they are best described in the Amplified Bible by the Apostle Paul when he said;
“God is faithful (reliable, trustworthy, and therefore ever true to His promise, and He can be depended on); by Him you were called into companionship and participation with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:9 AMP)
Companionship is friendship with God.
“The secret [of the sweet, satisfying companionship] of the Lord have they who fear (revere and worship) Him” (Psalm 25:14 AMPLIFIED)
It is seeking His face, experiencing the heart of the Kingdom.
Participation is the business of the Kingdom, partnership with God in His purposes. Seeking to see His hand in the affairs of men.
We are called to both; companionship and participation. The dual roles of servant and son (or daughter).
Like any friendship, it takes time to deepen and develop. Time is the currency of intimacy, and if you want to know God in this way you’ll need to reserve hours to that end.
Like any business, it requires skill to operate effectively. You’ll need to practice prayer and hone your sensitivity, equip yourself with spiritual technologies and techniques, to better serve your Master.
Unlike in natural things, people often fall prey to the idea that spiritual growth should just happen by accident. That it is something we cannot avidly pursue or intentionally promote. Too many saints waiting under the fig tree for Jesus to wander by and call them out.
The reality is far more exciting and empowering.
John 1:12 teaches:
“But as many as received him, to them gave he power (and authority) to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” (John 1:12 KJV)
We are born as children, but we become sons. We grow, and like a natural child, blossom through the stages of maturity.
John picks up this theme in his first letter, chapter 2, when he speaks of fathers in the faith, young men, and children. The children know they are forgiven, but young men have taken on their shoulders Kingdom responsibilities, wielding the Word of God with proficiency and overcoming the wicked one. Fathers (and mothers) have entered into a depth of fellowship and knowing that supersedes roles and responsibilities.
How wonderful to know we are not stuck, waiting for some spiritual bus to arrive and carry us to the next stop toward our destination. Your destiny in God places you in the driving seat and you are free to seek His Kingdom with as much or as little fervency as you please. No cap has been placed on your potential. No limit has been prescribed for how far, high, and deep you can go.
Don’t compare your journey with others. Don’t measure your progress by the crowd. Let your heart lead you in fervent pursuit to know and serve God with every ounce of your being.
