There are many ways people relate to God. Relating with God, however, is different. Most relate to God from an intellectual or rational standpoint based on human reason. The apostle, Paul, tried to make it clear that the way we relate with God is not in human or fleshly terms, but spiritual terms; through the new nature of Christ by the Holy Spirit.
RELEVANCE
This changes how we view and identify with God; and likewise, with others. We see things in a new light. It gives us a new perspective; new framework. It encompasses thinking of things in a different way; reconciling truth from falsehood, earthly values vs. eternal values, wisdom vs. folly, substance vs. vanity, etc.
“Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:16-19).
How can you experience such a new life in Christ? Truly, the new life is experienced by being immersed in the Holy Spirit and being open to seeing things in a new light. Seeing through the eyes of Jesus and being strengthened by the Holy Spirit changes your perspective, framework and orientation towards God and life in general.
REFLECT AND RELATE
Get some paper and make two columns. Begin to make a list of moral values, priorities, things you consider good vs. bad and personal virtues. Your list will grow in time! So will the placement of things as you reconcile the list with God. Don’t fret over it. The more God reveals truth, the more grace comes with it!
REFERENCES
Colossians 1:19-20; Philippians 3:7-16