Growing Closer to God: 5 Key Practices to Strengthen Your Relationship

Introduction:

The relationship we have with God is the most important relationship we can ever have. It is the foundation of our spiritual life and the source of our hope and strength. When we have a strong and intimate relationship with God, we experience His love, guidance, and provision in a more meaningful way. We are also able to navigate the challenges of life with greater faith and confidence.

In this article, we will explore five key practices that can help us strengthen our relationship with God. These practices include prayer, Bible study, worship, fellowship, and service. By cultivating these habits, we can deepen our connection with God and grow in our faith.

Scripture tells us in James 4:8, “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” This verse reminds us that our relationship with God is not a one-sided affair. As we draw near to Him through these spiritual disciplines, He promises to draw near to us. This promise is also echoed in Jeremiah 29:13, which says, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

As we begin our journey of strengthening our relationship with God, let us remember that it is not about religious performance or earning God’s favor. Rather, it is about opening our hearts to His love and grace and responding in faith and obedience. As we seek to draw closer to Him, let us approach Him with humility, reverence, and gratitude.

In the next sections of this article, we will explore each of the five practices in more detail and provide practical tips for incorporating them into our daily lives. May this journey of deepening our relationship with God be one of joy, growth, and transformation.

Prayer is an essential practice for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with God. Through prayer, we can communicate with God, express our gratitude, confess our sins, seek guidance, and experience His presence. However, prayer is not just a one-way conversation; it is a dialogue with God that requires both speaking and listening.

E.M. Bounds, a renowned Christian author and minister, wrote extensively on the subject of prayer. In his book “The Necessity of Prayer,” he wrote, “Prayer is not a monologue, but a dialogue; not a solitary exercise, but associated and united action.” This quote reminds us that prayer is not just about speaking to God, but also about listening to Him and being open to His guidance.

Paul Yangi Choe, a pastor and author, also emphasized the importance of prayer in his book “Prayer Power.” He wrote, “Prayer is the main artery that pumps life into our spiritual lives.” This analogy reminds us that prayer is not just a spiritual discipline, but a lifeline that connects us to the source of life and power.

So, how can we strengthen our relationship with God through prayer? Here are some practical tips:

Set aside time for prayer: Just as we schedule time for other important activities in our lives, we should set aside dedicated time for prayer. Whether it’s early in the morning or late at night, find a time that works best for you and commit to it.

Use a prayer journal: Writing down our prayers can help us focus our thoughts and emotions, as well as track our spiritual growth over time. It can also serve as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and answered prayers.

Pray with others: Praying with other believers can be a powerful experience of unity and fellowship. It can also provide accountability and support as we journey together in our spiritual lives.

Practice different types of prayer: There are many different types of prayer, such as intercession, confession, thanksgiving, and worship. Experiment with different types of prayer and find what works best for you in different situations.

Be persistent in prayer: As E.M. Bounds wrote, “The possibilities of prayer are found in its persistence.” Don’t give up on prayer, even when it feels difficult or unanswered. Keep persevering and trusting in God’s timing and goodness.

As we incorporate these practices into our prayer life, we can experience a deeper intimacy with God and a greater sense of His presence in our lives. We can also grow in our faith and trust in Him, knowing that He hears our prayers and is faithful to answer them according to His will.

In conclusion, prayer is a vital component of our relationship with God. It is a dialogue that requires both speaking and listening, and it is a lifeline that pumps life into our spiritual lives. By setting aside time for prayer, using a prayer journal, praying with others, practicing different types of prayer, and being persistent in prayer, we can deepen our connection with God and experience His love and guidance in a more meaningful way.

As E.M. Bounds wrote, “Prayer is the force as real as terrestrial gravity. As a physician must know about anatomy, so the Christian must know about prayer.” May we all seek to grow in our knowledge and practice of prayer, and may it strengthen our relationship with God in profound ways.

2. Bible Study

The Bible is the primary way that God communicates with us and reveals His will for our lives. Therefore, Bible study is an essential practice for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with God. Through studying the Word of God, we can gain knowledge and understanding of His character, His plan for our lives, and His promises to us.

Here are some practical tips for incorporating Bible study into our daily lives and strengthening our relationship with God:

Set aside time for Bible study: Just as we set aside time for prayer, we should also set aside dedicated time for Bible study. Whether it’s a few minutes in the morning or an hour in the evening, find a time that works best for you and commit to it.

Choose a study method: There are many different methods for studying the Bible, such as reading chronologically, topically, or through a study guide. Experiment with different methods and find what works best for you in different seasons of life.

Use a study Bible: A study Bible contains additional resources such as commentary, cross-references, and maps that can help us better understand the context and meaning of the Scriptures.

Take notes: Writing down our thoughts and insights can help us remember what we’ve learned and apply it to our lives. It can also serve as a record of our spiritual growth over time.

Study with others: Studying the Bible with other believers can provide accountability, support, and different perspectives. It can also deepen our understanding of the Word of God through discussion and sharing.

Apply what you’ve learned: The purpose of Bible study is not just to gain knowledge, but to apply it to our lives. Look for ways to incorporate what you’ve learned into your daily life, whether it’s through prayer, obedience, or service.

In addition to these practical tips, it’s important to approach Bible study with a heart of humility, reverence, and openness to the Holy Spirit. As we study the Word of God, we should be willing to learn, grow, and be transformed by it.

The importance of Bible study is emphasized throughout Scripture. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, it says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” This verse reminds us that the Bible is not just a collection of ancient texts, but a living and relevant source of wisdom and guidance for our lives.

As we incorporate these practical tips and approach Bible study with reverence and openness to the Holy Spirit, we can deepen our relationship with God and experience the transformative power of His Word in our lives. May we all seek to prioritize Bible study as a vital component of our spiritual lives and use it to grow in our knowledge and love for God.

3. Worship

Worship is a vital component of the Christian faith, as it provides a means of expressing our adoration and devotion to God. The Bible is filled with examples of worship and commands us to worship God in spirit and truth. In John 4:23-24, Jesus said, “But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

One of the most powerful ways to incorporate worship into our daily lives is through music. The Bible tells us to sing praises to God, as in Psalm 47:6-7, “Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises! For God is the King of all the earth; sing praises with a psalm!” Worship songs can help us to connect with God on a deeper level and to express our gratitude and love to Him. There are many worship artists and albums available that can help us to enter into a state of worship and connect with God, including Chris Tomlin, Kari Jobe, and Cory Asbury.

However, worship is not limited to music. It can also take the form of dance, painting, writing, or any other creative expression that allows us to connect with God and express our adoration and devotion to Him. The key is to find what works best for us and to use it as a means of drawing closer to God.

In addition to incorporating worship into our daily lives, it is also important to attend worship services with other believers. Gathering together to worship can be a powerful experience, as we can encourage one another and lift each other up in our faith. The writer of Hebrews encourages us to not neglect meeting together, as in Hebrews 10:24-25, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

There are many resources available to help us grow in our understanding and practice of worship. Books like “The Practice of the Presence of God” by Brother Lawrence and “Worship Matters” by Bob Kauflin provide practical guidance for cultivating a heart of worship and deepening our relationship with God. Music albums like “Here as in Heaven” by Elevation Worship and “The Garden” by Kari Jobe can help us to enter into a state of worship and connect with God in a powerful way.

As we seek to incorporate worship into our daily lives and to deepen our understanding and practice of it, we can experience the transformative power of God’s presence in our lives. May we all prioritize worship as a vital component of our spiritual lives and use it to grow in our love and devotion to God.

4. Fellowship

Fellowship is an essential aspect of the Christian faith, as it provides us with the opportunity to build relationships with other believers, encourage one another in our faith, and serve together in the mission of spreading the Gospel. The Bible encourages us to prioritize fellowship, as in Hebrews 10:24-25, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

One of the most practical ways to cultivate fellowship is by joining a small group or Bible study. These groups provide a space for us to connect with other believers, study the Bible together, and pray for one another. Small groups can be found in many churches and Christian organizations, and there are also many online options available for those who are unable to attend in-person.

Another way to foster fellowship is by serving together in ministry. When we work alongside others to serve our community or church, we develop meaningful relationships and create a sense of shared purpose. Serving can take many forms, such as volunteering at a local shelter, organizing a community event, or participating in a church outreach program.

In addition to joining a small group or serving in ministry, there are many resources available to help us deepen our understanding and practice of fellowship. Books like “Life Together” by Dietrich Bonhoeffer and “The Art of Neighboring” by Jay Pathak and Dave Runyon provide practical guidance for building meaningful relationships and fostering community. Online resources like Faithlife and ChristianMingle can also help us connect with other believers and form new relationships.

Ultimately, the key to fostering fellowship is to prioritize intentional connection with other believers. This may involve stepping outside of our comfort zones and making an effort to connect with new people, or it may involve committing to regular gatherings and events. By prioritizing fellowship, we can develop meaningful relationships with other believers and grow in our faith together.

Here are some practical tips for cultivating fellowship:

Join a small group or Bible study: This provides a space for studying the Bible together and connecting with other believers.

Serve in ministry: Working alongside others to serve our community or church creates a sense of shared purpose and meaningful relationships.

Attend church events and gatherings: Regularly attending church events and gatherings can help us connect with other believers and form new relationships.

Be intentional in conversation: When talking with others, make an effort to truly listen and ask thoughtful questions. This can help deepen relationships and foster a sense of community.

Use online resources: Online resources like Faithlife and ChristianMingle can help us connect with other believers and form new relationships.

In summary, fellowship is a vital component of the Christian faith, as it provides us with the opportunity to build relationships with other believers, encourage one another in our faith, and serve together in the mission of spreading the Gospel. By prioritizing intentional connection with other believers and utilizing the resources available to us, we can cultivate meaningful relationships and grow in our faith together.

5. Service

Service is a crucial component of the Christian faith, as it allows us to use our gifts and talents to impact the world for Christ. Jesus himself set an example of service, as in Mark 10:45, he says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” As believers, we are called to follow this example and serve others in our communities and beyond.

One of the most practical ways to engage in service is by volunteering with local organizations and charities. This could involve serving at a soup kitchen, volunteering at a homeless shelter, or participating in a community cleanup effort. By volunteering our time and resources, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those around us and reflect the love of Christ to those in need.

Another way to engage in service is by supporting global mission efforts. This could involve giving financially to organizations that support missionaries and ministries around the world or participating in short-term mission trips. By supporting global missions, we can help spread the Gospel and impact communities in need around the world.

In addition to volunteering and supporting global missions, there are many resources available to help us deepen our understanding and practice of service. Books like “Radical” by David Platt and “When Helping Hurts” by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert provide practical guidance for engaging in effective and sustainable service. Online resources like VolunteerMatch and Charity Navigator can also help us find and vet local and global organizations to support.

Ultimately, the key to engaging in service is to prioritize intentional action and consistent commitment. This may involve stepping outside of our comfort zones and serving in new and unfamiliar ways or it may involve committing to regular volunteering opportunities or financial giving. By prioritizing service, we can use our gifts and resources to impact the world for Christ and reflect his love to those in need.

Here are some practical tips for engaging in service:

Volunteer with local organizations and charities: This provides a tangible way to make a difference in the lives of those in our communities.

Support global missions: Giving financially to organizations that support missionaries and ministries around the world or participating in short-term mission trips can help spread the Gospel and impact communities in need.

Be intentional in action: When serving, make an effort to be thoughtful and intentional in our actions, taking into account the needs and desires of those we are serving.

Utilize resources: Books like “Radical” and “When Helping Hurts” provide practical guidance for engaging in effective and sustainable service. Online resources like VolunteerMatch and Charity Navigator can help us find and vet local and global organizations to support.

Commit to consistency: Make a commitment to regular volunteering opportunities or financial giving to support ongoing service efforts.

In summary, service is an important aspect of the Christian faith, as it allows us to use our gifts and talents to impact the world for Christ. By prioritizing intentional action and consistent commitment, we can engage in effective and sustainable service and reflect the love of Christ to those in need. Utilizing the resources available to us, such as local organizations and charities, global missions, and books and online resources, can also help us deepen our understanding and practice of service.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, strengthening our relationship with God is a lifelong journey that requires intentional effort and consistent commitment. By prioritizing prayer, Bible study, worship, fellowship, and service, we can deepen our understanding of God’s character and cultivate a closer relationship with him.

Here are some final practical tips for continuing to strengthen our relationship with God:

Set aside regular time for spiritual disciplines: Schedule a consistent time each day or week for prayer, Bible study, and worship to ensure that these practices become a regular part of your routine.

Engage with a community of believers: Seek out opportunities to connect with other believers through small groups, Bible studies, or church events. These relationships can provide support and encouragement as you seek to grow in your faith.

Be open to new experiences: Don’t be afraid to try new forms of worship or service, or to explore different interpretations of Scripture. These experiences can provide new insights and deepen your understanding of God’s character.

Stay accountable: Consider finding an accountability partner or mentor who can provide guidance and support as you seek to grow in your faith.

Embrace grace: Remember that growing in our relationship with God is a journey, and that we will inevitably make mistakes along the way. Embrace God’s grace and forgiveness as you seek to continue growing in your relationship with him.

Finally, there are many resources available to help us continue to deepen our relationship with God. Books like “The Practice of the Presence of God” by Brother Lawrence and “The Pursuit of God” by A.W. Tozer provide practical guidance for cultivating a closer relationship with God. Music resources like “Here as in Heaven” by Elevation Worship and “The Garden” by Kari Jobe can help facilitate worship and reflection. And resources like BibleGateway.com and the YouVersion Bible app can provide easy access to Scripture and Bible study resources.

In summary, strengthening our relationship with God is a lifelong journey that requires intentional effort and consistent commitment. By prioritizing spiritual disciplines, engaging with a community of believers, being open to new experiences, staying accountable, and embracing grace, we can continue to deepen our understanding of God’s character and cultivate a closer relationship with him. Utilizing the resources available to us can also help facilitate this growth and provide guidance and support along the way.