for me, it is my continuous, although at times strained on my account, conversation with the lord. regardless of the consequences otherwise, it would grieve me to my very roots if the lord were to say to me "i know you not". the only relationship with god is a personal one and that is what one must strive to cultivate. a clear conscience is vital. the things of this world, even the things we as humans see as being most precious, are nothing but fuel for the fire to come.