Imagine a date night with my husband and me. I’ve printed a list of conversation starters. 

I ask questions like: What was his first memory? What would he prefer I order for him at the local coffee shop? What’s he think about capital punishment? (I know, smell the romance!)

I scribble furiously. I feel so connected! 

But my husband is so much more than he is on paper, so much more than his shoe size and food-truck preferences. The purpose of knowing each other more is adoring each other a little more and loving each other a little better.

Sometimes I wonder if God resonates with the not-quite date night. Like when ministry reads over my shoulder in my devotional life. I want to know God—but maybe not always for purely his own sake. 

My intentions might really be that it makes me a better Bible teacher, better global woman, or just a better Christian if I can recall the requirements for a bovine offering or immediately recall Ephesians 2:4 by heart. 

The Pharisees executed this perfectly: they knew God on paper like no one else but totally missed his heart. To them he responded, “I never knew you.” Matthew 7:21-23 (Emphasis added)

All their knowing meant they actually missed the most critical commandment: to love him. To not just know about, but to know personally.

Yes, love God’s Word. Secure it not just in your mind but your heart (Psalm 119:11). Guard your doctrine (1 Timothy 4:16). 

But the real purposes behind our studying and knowledge of God—will replicate themselves in the disciples we make. Like Paul, we indicate, Follow me, as I follow Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). 

Is knowing my husband critical for teamwork, especially overseas? Of course. Does my knowledge mean I represent him well, know him well? It can and should. 

But if date nights—and spiritual disciplines—don’t funnel us toward more enjoyment of God…we may have a problem. 

Avoid your next not-quite “date night.” Make sure knowledge leads to love.