— What do you need from the Lord?  What does the Lord want from you?  In the answer to these two questions we find the simple truth of how to have a relationship with God.  The list of things we need from God is very specific and detailed in His word.  There in His word we also find what God wants from us.  It’s not difficult.  It’s not a hidden mystery.  It doesn’t require the intellect of a brain surgeon.  Some theological master mind is not needed.  God’s plan is for this to be a very simple understanding of truth.

 Notice some of the things you need from God.  You need the salvation found only in the Lord Jesus Christ.  Acts 4:12 – “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” NKJV  You need the every abiding presence of the Lord.  Matthew 28:20 – “... I am with you always , even to the end of the age.” NKJV  When battling sickness or an injury you need the healing provision found only in Jesus.  1 Peter 2:24 – “... by whose stripes you were healed.” NKJV  In life you need the guidance that comes from the Holy Spirit.  John 16:13 – “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” NKJV  You need the blessed hope and assurance of eternal life.  Titus 1:2 – “in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie , promised before time began,” NKJV

 Here are some things God wants from you.  God wants your love.  Mark 12:30 – “‘And you shall love the LORD  your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment.’” NKJV  God wants your obedience.  John 14:15 – ““If you love Me , keep My commandments. NKJV  God wants you to share the truth of His good news.  Mark 16:15 – “And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.’” NKJV  God wants your relationship with Him to bring an overcoming happiness.  Phil 4:4 – “Rejoice in the Lord  always. Again I will say, rejoice!”  NKJV

 This is not complicated.  Like any other relationship there are basic expectations from both sides.  You and I need God desperately.  He alone can met these specific needs.  God wants some things from us.  His expectations are not unreasonable.  You should not see these needs and wants being met as payment or retribution.  They represent relationship.  God in His relationship with us wants to be the source that provides for each of these needs.  In our relationship with God we are motivated to fulfill anything He wants from us.