I seem to have the hardest time maintaining a vibrant relationship with Jesus. I understand that having an authentic and passionate relationship with God is the most important thing about this life, but I still wrestle with keeping it fresh with Him.
I love that because of the Gospel I can have a personal relationship with the Creator of the Universe. I love that as I seek Him in Spirit and in Truth (See John Chapter 4, Verse 24) I can develop a solid foundation in Him.
But how do we daily seek the Lord in the busyness of life and not grow complacent? I don’t want my relationship with God to be mechanical and without passion. I don’t want to dread spending time in the Word or in prayer, and neither does the Lord! But how can we do this?
In my time of prayer, God has given me a few helpful reminders on how to keep my relationship with Him disciplined, productive, and exciting.
Prayer walks
Take a walk with the Lord. God is omniscient. He is not confined to the walls of the church or your favorite coffeeshop. A brisk prayer walk can help clear your mind and bring focus to your prayers. Walk the city, beach, nearby trail, or suburban neighborhood. You may look like a crazy person talking to the air, but be encouraged that God sees you and hears everything.
Memory verses
Welcome back to Sunday school! Memory verses are not just for the little ones to earn “Well done!” stickers. A memory verse (or passage) is a great way to engage your brain and implement hiding God’s Word in your heart. Don’t know where to start? I challenge you to memorize Psalm Chapter one. Don’t be afraid to ask the Lord for help with this. He desires us to know His Word and walk in obedience.
Journaling
Recording your thoughts in journals, diaries, or if you’re like me, Captain’s Logs, is a fantastic way of keeping your relationship with the Lord fresh. If you’re a consistent and thorough record of your thoughts, journals can provide attitudes of gratitude when you reflect on where God has grown and revealed Himself to you. Being creative with your typography will also add flavor to your time spent journaling.
Reading a different translation
There’s something special about reading a new translation of the Bible. Biblical words transliterated will provide a fuller picture of what the Holy Spirit is trying to convey. If you’re a New King James reader, try the English Standard Version. And if you’re a New American Standard reader, try reading the New Living Translation. See how you like it, and if you don’t prefer a certain translation, that’s okay!
Daily Devotionals
I’m a huge fan of daily devotional reading material. I love when I read in the scriptures and then turn to a daily devotional and the same key verses are mentioned. A few of my favorite devotional reading materials are; “New Morning Mercies” by Paul David Tripp, “My Utmost for His Highest” by Chambers, and “Streams in the Desert” by Jim Reimann. Remember that daily devotional reading materials are to supplement your time in God’s Word. Be careful that you’re not neglecting the pure word of God for man’s input on it, though it may be very helpful.
Make a plan
Spending time with God doesn’t naturally happen. You must take personal responsibility in creating room for God to speak to you. Get out your calendars and phone alarms! It’s wise to schedule “dates” with the Lord. Like any relationship, you must invest time and energy. How much more should we be investing our resources when it comes to the Lord?
Keep on seeking the Lord, brothers and sisters. May God bless your time spent with Him.
Aaron serves in Murrieta, CA and is a pastor at Cross Culture Ministries and is also the director of On The Edge.
Aaron Sabio’s previous articles may be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/aaron-sabio.html