To be in a relationship means that you connect. When we look at the state of being connected, we need to understand what “state” means. The definition of relationship also highlights the “way” we proceed in the relationship. Let’s explore those terms in the context of a relationship. State refers to the particular condition that someone or something is in at a specific time. In the state of a relationship, we behave differently. We relax, feel more confident, and talk more openly. We do more, shed our shyness, and lower our guard. These actions make us feel comfortable. We feel like we can do anything without a guard up. We listen and accept the other person’s advice. We trust them and seek their aid. If they need our help, we willingly assist. This mindset shapes the state of mind.
Now, let’s consider “way.” Way refers to a method, style, or manner of doing something. Think about what we do when we enter the relationship. We follow certain practices to ensure our relationship remains strong. We give our 100% to the relationship, making sure we keep the other person happy and satisfied. This method defines how we act. When our state of mind focuses on being happy and content, we proceed in a way that maintains that happiness and contentment.
This approach allows our relationship to grow and blossom into something beautiful. We open up and begin to change. We start listening and understanding the process. In a relationship, we don’t want it to falter; we want it to stay strong. If we aren’t doing our part, we work on ourselves. We put effort into the relationship, knowing that we need to contribute. When you build a relationship with God, you open up and invite Him in. You communicate effectively and lower your guard. This openness allows you to reach the next level of hearing God’s voice.
Consider young Samuel, who hears God’s voice calling him at night. With Eli’s guidance, he learns to respond, marking the beginning of his deep relationship with God. This scriptural passage highlights the importance of recognizing and responding to God’s voice to build a strong relationship.
Scriptural Reference: 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (AMP)
1 Now the boy Samuel was attending to the service of the Lord under the supervision of Eli. The word of the Lord was rare and precious in those days; visions [that is, new revelations of divine truth] were not widespread.
2 Yet it happened at that time, as Eli was lying down in his own place (now his eyesight had begun to grow dim and he could not see well),
3 and the [a]oil lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was,
4 that the Lord called Samuel, and he answered, “Here I am.”
5 He ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But Eli said, “I did not call you; lie down again.” So he went and lay down.6 Then the Lord called yet again, “Samuel!” So Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But Eli answered, “I did not call, my son; lie down again.”
7 Now Samuel did not yet know [or personally experience] the Lord, and the word of the Lord was not yet revealed [directly] to him.
8 So the Lord called Samuel a third time, and he stood and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you did call me.” Then Eli understood that it was the Lord who was calling the boy.
9 So Eli said to Samuel, “Go lie down, and it shall be that if He calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
10 Then the Lord came and stood and called as at the previous times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.”
This passage demonstrates the importance of responding to God’s call and building a relationship with Him. Samuel’s journey from confusion to clarity, guided by Eli, shows how we too can learn to recognize and respond to God’s voice. As we develop our relationship with God, we grow more attuned to His presence and guidance, allowing our connection to deepen and flourish.