Knowing God or Knowing About Him?

So what's the difference between these two things? How do I know if I know God? How do I know if I love Him?

A short time ago, I spent an hour with my wife and children flying a kite. Why would I do that? Because it was terrific fun, and because I love them. I don't want to be a stranger to my kids or allow my relationship with my wife to drift, so I invest the time.

So is it any fun at all to spend time with God? When other things demand my time, do I greive because I can't be with Him? Does it ever worry me that I'm starting to feel like a stranger to Him or He seems strange to me? Do I enjoy wasting time with Him?

When I talk with my daughter, she says some of the funniest things. I love talking to her and holding her on my lap. She will lean over and say "I want to tell you a secret, Daddy." And then she will whisper in my ear, "I love you, Daddy."

Do I like to pray? Is it a sense of duty that sends me to my knees, or do I look forward to it? Do I feel like I am getting to spend time with a loved family member when I spend time in the quiet with God?

Sometimes I wonder if I know Him.

I know a lot about Him. I can explain His behavior and His character to people who have not heard and do not know. I can explain His great actions, and I can help people to look for Him in their lives. I can even see Him in mine.

But do I know Him? Do I love Him?

I want to. Sometimes, I think I am getting to know Him. But I do wonder sometimes if I will ever come to feel like I am any more than a nervous beginner in a relationship with Him.

I am glad to be known by Him. I want to come to know Him.