Knowing god vs. Knowing God: Identifying Little 'g' gods in Your Life
In the Christian walk, there is a profound difference between knowing god (in a vague, cultural, or superficial sense) and truly knowing God—the living, holy, personal capital 'G' God of Scripture. One leads to religion without transformation, while the other leads to relationship, reverence, and revival.
1. "Knowing god": The Danger of Substitutes
When we say someone "knows god" in the lowercase sense, it often means:
- A generic belief in a higher power without commitment to Jesus Christ.
- An idea of god shaped by culture, comfort, or convenience.
- A belief in self-made gods—things or people we elevate in our lives that take the place of God.
These little 'g' gods are idols in disguise.
Common "little g" gods:
- Success or ambition
- Money or materialism
- Approval or popularity
- Control or self-dependence
- Romance or relationships
- Religion without relationship
"You shall have no other gods before Me." – Exodus 20:3
"Their gods are silver and gold, the work of human hands." – Psalm 115:4
These idols may not be carved statues, but they compete for our worship. They promise what only God can truly give—security, identity, purpose—but they always fail.
2. "Knowing God": The Real, Living Relationship
To know God (capital G) means:
- Relationship over religion – Knowing about God isn't enough. He wants us to walk with Him daily.
- Revelation through Jesus – Jesus said, "If you have seen Me, you have seen the Father" (John 14:9).
- Submission and transformation – Knowing God means He shapes our identity, decisions, and desires.
"Be still, and know that I am God." – Psalm 46:10
"Now this is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent." – John 17:3
3. How to Move from "knowing god" to Truly Knowing God
- Evaluate what you worship – What consumes your time, thoughts, and trust?
- Repent of idols – Confess and surrender the little gods you've allowed to lead you.
- Seek intimacy with God – Through prayer, Scripture, worship, and obedience.
- Invite the Holy Spirit to reveal any hidden idols or areas of misplaced trust.
