The Three Experiences of a Believer

I have glorified you on the earth. I have finished the work which you have given Me to do. John 17:4 (NKJV)

As believers, our journey with God encompasses different experiences, each shaping our faith and testimony. These experiences determine how we live and how others see God’s work in our lives. There are three key types of experiences that define our walk as children of God:

Ideal or Perfect Experiences: This experience is unique to Jesus. He was the only one who lived a completely perfect life, one that totally pleased the Father. Jesus never faltered in His faith, His walk with the Holy Spirit, or His ministry. In every aspect of His life, He honoured the Father perfectly. Even His enemies acknowledged His perfection, saying, He does all things well (Mark 7:37). Jesus sets the ultimate standard for sonship, showing us what it looks like to live a life fully aligned with the will of God.

Exceptional Experiences
While not common, exceptional experiences are significant for a believer’s testimony. These moments occur due to unique circumstances and divine choices that mark our lives. Sometimes, God allows these exceptional experiences to guide us toward our destiny, showing us that we are set apart for a specific purpose. These experiences may come in the form of trials or challenges, such as opposition from the enemy. It’s important to remember that not all problems arise from sin. For example, the man born blind in John 9:1-3 had an exceptional experience of suffering that ultimately revealed the glory of God. God uses these moments to shape us, refine our faith, and strengthen our testimony.

Ordinary Experiences
While exceptional and perfect experiences are impactful, most of our lives consist of the ordinary. These are the everyday moments where we continue to grow in our sonship, learning to trust God in the mundane and faithful in the small things.

As sons and daughters of God, we may not always experience perfection or exceptional moments, but we are always called to walk faithfully in each season of our lives. May we seek to please the Father in all experiences, knowing that He is shaping us through every moment.

Prayer:
Father, I thank you for the different experiences you bring into my life. Help me to learn from each moment, whether it’s a perfect experience like Jesus, an exceptional moment of trial, or an ordinary day. I desire to be a son who pleases you, trusting that you are at work in every part of my journey. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.