In the course of writing for Bold Worship, I often make reference to “walking with Jesus.” If you don’t yet know me or are new to this site, you may be wondering what I mean, or assume that I mean something that I actually don’t. I want to use this post to explain exactly what I mean by “walking with Jesus.”
What I don’t mean
To begin, let me be clear on what I don’t mean. I am not using the term to refer in general to your relationship with Jesus.
We often talk about our “walk with the Lord” to refer to all aspects of our spiritual life, including devotional time, church attendance, acts of service, etc. These are all wonderful things and have their proper place. But I don’t mean to include all of these things when I refer to “walking with Jesus.”
To pursue an intimate relationship
The current focus of this blog is to encourage you to pursue an intimate relationship with God. I believe this relationship is the reason you were created, that it is the most important thing you could ever do with your life, and that nothing honors God more than choosing to be with Him and love Him (Matthew 22:37-38).
When I use the phrase “walking with Jesus,” I’m referring to the specific times and purposeful activities you choose in order to spend time with God. I’m talking about the things you do to be alone with and love Jesus.
This could include finding a quiet time and place in your home where you can be with Jesus. Matthew 6:6 puts it this way:
But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
Often I literally mean going for a walk with Jesus, away from the distractions of home or office. I have found this to be the thing that works best for me.
Discover what “walking with Jesus” looks like
Each of us needs to discover what “walking with Jesus” looks like in our own lives. If it means going for a walk with Him during your lunch hour, that’s great. If it works better for you to find a quiet place in your home, that’s great, too.
Martin Luther’s mother, caring for her 9 children, would have found it hard to leave the house and go for a walk alone with Jesus. It is said she would sit in her house with her apron pulled up over her head. This was the signal to the family that she was not to be disturbed as she was spending time alone with God.
The bottom line is this: find what works for you in the life God has given you, and devote that time faithfully to Him as you pursue knowing and loving Him with all your might.