I’m a bulimic in recovery, but struggling with frequent relapsing (binging/overexercising/restricting). I really want to get to know God, talk to Him whenever I need and want to, and have a real relationship with Him. But how do I know that He is real and not just an imaginary being that humans invented for a sense of comfort? I’m not sure I can start pursuing a relationship until I know it’s all real. I want and need it so badly. Thank you. – Amy
Dear Amy,
I applaud your interest in wanting to know God. The truth is He knows and loves you and desires relationship with you. What most people find to be true, myself included, is that the better our relationship with God is the better we feel about ourselves our human relationships, and our circumstances. God has a way of making things work out well for those who trust Him.
God has a name and we are to speak to Him directly. His name is Jesus. We learn and know He is real by talking to Him and reading the Bible. I have asked Jesus to show me that He was real. He did.
I would encourage you to read the book of John in the New Testament part of the Bible; avoid the King James translation. Also go to a church where there are people you relate to and the teach the Bible as true and that Jesus is real. Also if you send a mailing address I will forward you a copy of the C.S. Lewis book Mere Christianity. It answers a lot of questions.
The best thing you can do is to start talking to Jesus and read about Him in the Bible. He has revealed Himself to billions of people for more than 2,000 years. If you ask Him, He will reveal Himself to you. But be willing: the more you resist the more difficult it will be.
God bless you,
Dave Muntsinger