With influential people, such as public figures or government leaders, there are limitations on how one can get in touch with them. I certainly can write them, maybe even call them, but just walk up to their house, knock on the door and invite myself in? Probably not. 

What about pulling them aside to have an intimate conversation? Unless I’m given special permission, that type of relationship is not granted. 

But that’s not how God operates. He is the ultimate leader, so powerful and mighty, and yet he cares about our lives, even the most specific or random details. He not only cares, but desires to have an intimate relationship with us. We are free to enter boldly into his throne room and place every concern, thought and praise at his feet. 

Have you ever thought about that kind of freedom? Have you ever thought about what your life would be like if you had that kind of relationship with God? 

Consider Jacob who boldly asked God to bless him (Genesis 32:24-30) or Moses who begged to see God’s glory (Exodus 33:17-23). Hannah was so desperate for a child, she wept before God and asked for a son (1 Samuel 1:1-20). Hezekiah, who learned he had a disease and would die, confidently asked God to heal him (2 Kings 20:1-6). The apostles boldly prayed for miracles. Each exercised his or her freedom to approach God. 

These are just a few biblical examples and we, too, can approach God, “in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him” (Ephesians 3:12). Because we are God’s children, we have the freedom to have an intimate, personal, bold relationship with him. 

Today is Independence Day, a celebration of American freedom. It’s also a perfect day to remember and reflect on the freedom we have in Christ. Think about what benefits that freedom brings you, then embrace them. Be bold, approach God and enter a relationship that God desperately wants to have with you. 

“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” – Hebrews 4:16

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