“Know the Lord” is a simple way to describe faith in Jesus. But even after you “know Him” in that way, do you really feel like you “KNOW” Jesus? When you imagine your first meeting with Him in heaven, is it a reunion with a beloved and familiar friend? Or more like meeting a stranger you know lots of facts about? Here are three practical ways you can become more familiar with your Savior:

1. Find out what pleases the Lord - and really do it. (Ephesians 5:17, Romans 12:2)

Christians say we “follow Jesus” or that we “walk with the Lord.” But we don’t actually see Him walking with us. Does this make it harder to relate to Him? Yes, and no. There is more to knowing Him than reading about His life. Putting His commands into action is the next step. Jesus said, “The one who loves Me is the one who has My teaching and obeys it.” (John 14:21a), and, “If anyone will do what God wants, he will know if My teaching is from God, or if I am speaking of Myself.” (John 7:17)

2. Let the Bible guide your imagination.

What are your friends like? You might say, “Alexander is as bold as a lion.” “Amelia always rushes in like a flood.” When Jesus took on human form, He showed us what God is like (John 1:18). But even before He arrived, God started getting us ready for Him by picturing Him as the Seed of the Woman, our Rock, our Redeemer, the Righteous Branch. Jesus called Himself the Vine, the Bread of Life, the light of the World and the Good Shepherd. By calling Himself these things, what is God trying to say about Himself? He is guiding our worship and understanding of Him.

3. Make your prayers intimate and private.

What if a close friend could see a copy of your prayers? If that thought doesn’t bother you, your prayer life could probably be improved. Jesus said not to “babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again.” (Matthew 6:7) He made it OK for us to freely and simply ask God for what we need. You don’t need memorized prayers or pretty words. He’s pleased when we’re bold enough to ask without shame, like an honored son or daughter. (Luke 11:5-13) God is so holy that it may be hard to be completely honest at first. But read Hebrews 4:13, 16 (above) and remember that nothing is ever out of His view. He loves you, He wants you to know Him, and will never stop feeling that way about you.