It seems to me that one reason why so many of us find it difficult to experience the reality of God's special love for us, is that we tend not to relate to God in ways that actually enable that love to be a real experience. We know theologically the wonderful truth of God's unique and special love for us through the Lord Jesus, but it becomes a belief and an idea, rather than a real experience. For instance, when problems (including sin) come along we may be tempted to hide from God and reject Him in a state of anger or self-pity. On the other hand, we may formalise our relationship with Him so much that He seems very distant. As in all relationships, our relationship with Jesus is affected by most of the usual hurts and fears, especially the fear of rejection. Whilst it's right to honour God as the Creator of the universe in His might and majesty, and have a sense of awe towards Him, it's also right to experience His intimate love and complete understanding of us. We need to do more than just understand the great biblical truths of God's love, acceptance, understanding and forgiveness in Christ. We need to firmly hold on to these biblical truths as the solid foundation of our relationship with Him, with others and with ourselves.
