People say that our "spiritual walk" matters or that we should walk with God — but why?

Maybe you struggle when walking with God. Maybe it's been a while since you've walked with God, or maybe you've never tried.

We all know how easy it is to walk away and to wander around according to our own way, so it's worth asking the question. After all, if we don't know why, then we have no purpose or motivation to do it.

So in this episode, consider three reasons for walking with God — reasons that were highlighted by George Whitefield in 1741, specifically in his Genesis 5:22-24 sermon about Enoch.

(Note: This is part 3 of 3, but you are welcome to start here and later listen to the earlier episodes about "what" and "how" to walk with God.)

Walking with God involves communing with God, but very practically speaking, how do we do that?

Take a few minutes to consider seven aspects of walking with God.

These seven were originally suggested by George Whitefield in the 18th century, but we can take these even further and consider how to best apply them in our lives today.

So take a step forward! Let's walk with God together.

What is a "spiritual walk"? We sometimes sing about walking with the Lord, and we read about Enoch who walked with God — but what does that mean?

Before we get to the how, we need to ask the what. Delve into this with us, as we reflect upon George Whitefield's seven aspects of walking with God.

Here I am!

Being "present in worship" sounds like a wonderful goal, but that can be difficult to define, and sometimes experientially elusive.

Despite our lack of awareness or understanding, the people of God are called to respond — to "choose this day whom you will serve" — and that includes trustful, daily obedience.

Toward this end, God calls us, but how do we respond in an appropriate way?

To conclude this three-part study in 1 Samuel, let's look at the central character, Samuel, and learn from his example.

Sometimes we approach worship too casually — not in what we wear, but in the condition of our hearts.

Even worse, sometimes we fail to worship at all, due to distraction, irritation, or other situations. In those cases, we treat spirituality with triviality, thinking that the motions are good enough.

When that happens, what should we do? What can help? 

Scripture reminds us that when we don't worship seriously, we can face serious consequences. But the solution is not ourselves (for the problem is within us), but the solution is "mediation." 

Let's read 1 Samuel 1–4 and then delve into this further.

Read 1 Samuel 1-2, and then join along as we learn from the example of Hannah.

Many people today are facing difficulties, and some are deconstructing their spirituality or leaving their faith altogether.

While we may feel like giving up, especially when life gets hard, it is important to continuing in worship — for God is worthy of our praise.

God is the one who gives life, so when we feel lifeless, let us worship the God of all life.

Join along in singing the hymn "Father, Long Before Creation."

This month, we look at justice — and ask the difficult question of "Why does injustice continue if so many people believe in God?"

Psalm 82 gives us insight into the Only God who brings justice, the God who deserves our worship.

Delve into this challenging passage, and consider how Jesus Christ's exaltation can inspire you — to not only worship but to pursue justice in this world.

Ever feel down and out? Whether it be from other people or difficult situations, we've all felt pushed down, even "underground," at one time or another.

When you feel down, scripture reminds us of an important truth: Our glorious God cares about humanity and raises us above the chaos.

As Psalm 8 teaches, the glory of God gives us both meaning and confidence — not because of what we've done but because of God's status above all else.

Because God elevates us, we are led to praise, for God is uniquely majestic, above all the earth.

Both personally and communally, we face all kinds of burdens that prevent us from living a fulfilling life. Perhaps even now you feel stuck in a situation and don't know how to get out.

But there is hope.

In worship, we come before Christ our King, who liberates us. This liberty is not reserved for only a few but guaranteed for all believers in Jesus Christ. In fact, as we learn from Leviticus, liberation is not incidental but indispensable to worship. All who experience the Lord are liberated.

Spend a few minutes in scripture, and you'll see how ultimate freedom comes not from a personal feeling or a political movement from the presence of Almighty God.