Have you ever wondered how someone can speak of their experiences with God yet continue living in sin without ever showing real heart change? It’s because having an experience with God is not the same as having an encounter with Him.

In Luke 24:13–49, we read about two disciples walking on the road to Emmaus. They were confused, discouraged, and trying to make sense of all they had seen. These men had walked with Jesus, witnessed His miracles, and listened to His teachings. And yet—when the risen Christ walked right beside them—they didn’t recognize Him. How is it possible to be that close to Jesus and still not see Him for who He is?

The answer lies in this truth: experiencing God is not the same as truly encountering Him.

The Difference Between Experience and Encounter

To experience God might mean being in a moment where His power is felt—maybe during a powerful worship service, a miraculous breakthrough, or an answered prayer. These moments are important. They stir our hearts. But if they don’t lead to a personal revelation of who Jesus truly is, they often fade into distant memories rather than lead to lasting transformation.

That’s what happened with the disciples on the road. They had experienced Jesus throughout His ministry. But it wasn’t until He opened the Scriptures to them—and broke bread with them—that their eyes were opened. Suddenly, they didn’t just remember what He had done; they recognized who He was. And their hearts burned with new understanding (Luke 24:32). That is what an encounter does—it ignites something deep and lasting.

Why Encounters Matter More Than Experiences

• Transformation Requires Revelation
  Experiences can encourage us, but real change begins when we see Jesus clearly for who He is. Revelation opens the heart and calls us to respond in obedience. The disciples went from discouraged and scattered to bold and full of purpose after their encounter with Jesus.
• Engagement Goes Beyond Activity
  You can attend church, read your Bible, and be around Christian things—but still not be connected to God personally. The disciples had been physically close to Jesus, but their hearts weren’t yet fully engaged. An encounter draws you into real relationship. It moves faith from a concept to a living connection.
• Encounters Lead to Mission
  As soon as the disciples realized it was Jesus, they didn’t waste a second. They went straight back to Jerusalem to tell the others. When we encounter God personally, it lights a fire in us to share what we've seen and known with others. It’s no longer just a testimony—it becomes a message.
• Power Comes Through Surrender
  Before sending His followers out, Jesus told them in Luke 24:49 to wait until they were “clothed with power from on high.” Why? Because even their encounter with Him wasn’t enough. They needed the Holy Spirit to empower them for the life ahead. Waiting wasn't passive—it was an act of surrender and trust.

Moving from Experience to Encounter

• Pursue Relationship
  Don’t settle for moments. Press in for a relationship. Spend time in prayer—not just talking, but listening. Ask Jesus to reveal Himself in ways that shape your heart and renew your mind.
• Open the Word
  Jesus used Scripture to reveal Himself. He still does. The Bible is not just a record of events—it’s a living invitation to know the heart of God. Let the Word shape how you see Him.
• Welcome the Holy Spirit
  The Holy Spirit makes Jesus real to us. He helps us understand, convicts our hearts, and draws us into deeper relationship. Ask for His help every step of the way.
• Take Time to Reflect
  Think about the moments you’ve had with God. Have they changed you? If not, it’s not too late. Ask Him to meet you again—right where you are—and to turn those moments into encounters that mark your life.

Prayer

Father, thank You for Your presence and the many ways You draw near to us. We admit that experiences alone are not enough—we need to know You for ourselves. Just as You opened the eyes of the disciples, open our eyes today. Help us see You clearly. Set our hearts on fire with passion and purpose. Teach us to wait on Your Spirit and walk in step with You. We don’t want fleeting moments—we want a life transformed by Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.