Ignorance means that we are living in a state of being uninformed.  As it relates to our relationship with God this is not a desired state of mind, yet so many that call themselves followers of Christ live perpetually in the land of “I don’t know.”

As I think about ignorance I see two possible camps that people fall into.  There are those that have simply not been exposed to certain truths about the heart, mind, and expectations of God.  And, there are those that intentionally avoid such things so as to escape the responsibility that comes with knowing the truth.

For those that simply haven’t been exposed to deeper truths about God, my advice is to remain faithful.  Show up to church consistently, read your bible regularly, be regular in prayer, serve others often, and surround yourself with people that are further along in the journey than you are.  If you have a heart that wants to grow, God will not withhold truth and wisdom from you.

The situation is different for those that live by the mantra, “ignorance is bliss.”  Many that profess to follow Christ are like an infant that still takes milk from the bottle.  They have chosen not to grow up.  They shield themselves from gathering enough knowledge about God that would require them to evaluate the life that they are living and make uncomfortable changes.

The individual that lives in this manner is deceived by the notion that they are better off to have a lack of knowledge.  It’s as if their not knowing will not or cannot affect their lives.

If we take to heart these words written by the Apostle Peter we can begin to appreciate a different perspective.

I Peter 1:13-16… Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” (ESV)

God’s intention is to lead us away from the person we used to be when we were completely ignorant of God.  If we choose not to pursue God and his wisdom then we will begin to slip back into the ways we lived before.

God does not redeem any of us so that we can remain the way we are.  He wants to transform us into his image.  He wants our actions and words to model that of his son Jesus.  That may seem intimidating or provoke a sense of fear, but I would suggest that you not think in terms of what you might be losing but in terms of what you will be gaining.

Living in ignorance stunts your growth.  If you have been avoiding church, never picking up your bible, reserving prayer for moments right before meals, serving only when it is convenient, or hiding from those friends and family that can challenge you, then you need to reconsider.  In order for a heart to be aligned with God a man or woman must be pursuing God and learning all that they can.

Do You Want A Heart That Is Aligned With God?

James 1:5…If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. (ESV)

Written by Larry Westfall.  Copyright © Finding Wonder 2013.